Pregnancy
can lead to dental problems in some women, including gum disease and increased
risk of tooth decay. During pregnancy, your increased hormones can affect your
body's response to plaque (the layer of germs on your teeth).
Pregnancy does not automatically damage your teeth. The old wives' tale that warns a woman to expect a lost tooth for every baby is false. If the mother's intake of calcium is inadequate during pregnancy, her bones – not her teeth – will provide the calcium her growing baby needs. This calcium loss is quickly made up after breastfeeding is stopped.
Pregnancy does not automatically damage your teeth. The old wives' tale that warns a woman to expect a lost tooth for every baby is false. If the mother's intake of calcium is inadequate during pregnancy, her bones – not her teeth – will provide the calcium her growing baby needs. This calcium loss is quickly made up after breastfeeding is stopped.
However,
the demands of pregnancy can lead to particular dental problems in some women.
With proper hygiene at home and professional help from your dentist, your teeth
should remain healthy throughout pregnancy.
Dental disease can affect a developing
Research
has found a link between gum disease in pregnant women and premature birth with
low birth weight. Babies who are born prematurely may risk a range of health
conditions including cerebral palsy and problems with eyesight and hearing. Estimates suggest that up to 18 out of every 100 premature births may be
triggered by periodontal disease, which is a chronic infection of the gums.
Appropriate dental treatment for the expectant mother may reduce the risk of
premature birth.
Pre-pregnancy dental health
You are less likely to have dental problems during pregnancy if you already have good oral hygiene habits. Suggestions include:
- brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste
- floss between your teeth
- visit your dentist regularly
If
you are planning on getting pregnant, but you are also planning on having some
elective dental procedures, see your dentist. It is more convenient to have
elective procedures done before you conceive. If you require dental treatment
during pregnancy, non-urgent procedures are often performed after the first
trimester.
Click HERE for the other tips to take care of your dental health during pregnancy.
Tell your dentist if you are pregnant
Pregnancy
may affect your dental care. For example, the dentist may put off taking x-rays
until after the birth of your baby. If dental x-rays are unavoidable, the
dentist can take precautions to ensure your baby's safety. If your dental
condition requires general anaesthesia or medications, talk to your dentist,
doctor or obstetrician for advice.
Causes of dental health problems
Common
causes of dental health problems during pregnancy can include:
- gum problems
- vomiting
- cravings for sugary foods
- retching while brushing teeth
Food cravings while pregnant
Some
women experience unusual food cravings (and food avoidance) while they are
pregnant. A regular desire for sugary snacks may increase your risk of tooth
decay. Try to snack on low-sugar foods instead. If nothing but sweetness will satisfy your craving, try to sometimes choose
healthier options such as fresh fruits. Rinse your mouth with water or an
alcohol-free mouth rinse, or brush your teeth after having sugary snacks.
Increase your calcium during pregnancy
You
need to increase your daily amount of calcium during pregnancy. Sufficient
calcium will protect your bone mass and meet the nutritional needs of your
developing baby.
Good sources of dietary calcium include products such as:
Good sources of dietary calcium include products such as:
- milk
- cheese
- unsweetened yoghurt
- calcium-fortified soymilk
Increase your vitamin D during pregnancy
Vitamin
D helps the body to utilise calcium. Good sources include:
- cheese
- fortified margarine
- fatty fish, such as salmon
- eggs
The
bottom line about dental and oral health during pregnancy
Your oral health has
an effect on more than just your teeth and the baby.
