When you’re expecting, your to-do list may feel endless: prenatal vitamins, doctor’s appointments, nursery prep, and everything else in between. But as busy as you may be, one thing that should be at the top of your list of priorities is maintaining your dental health. Though it might seem unrelated, your oral health during pregnancy is closely connected to your baby’s health. In fact, research has shown that certain dental problems during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications for your baby! However, with a little awareness and good habits, these risks are very manageable. Here’s what you need to know.
How Pregnancy Changes Your Oral Health
Pregnancy brings significant hormonal changes to your body, to say the least. Rising levels of estrogen can cause your gums to become more sensitive, swollen, and prone to bleeding, which is actually a condition so common it’s often referred to as “pregnancy gingivitis.” Many pregnant women also experience increased acidity in the mouth due to morning sickness, which can wear down tooth enamel over time.
These changes mean that even women who have never had significant dental problems before can find themselves dealing with gum irritation or tooth sensitivity during pregnancy. This is all the more reason that staying on top of your oral hygiene routine and keeping your dental appointments is especially important during these life-changing nine months.
How to Protect Your Smile & Your Child
The good news is that maintaining good oral health during pregnancy doesn’t require anything out of the ordinary! Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and rinse with water after any episodes of morning sickness to neutralize your mouth’s acidity before brushing. Most importantly, don’t skip your routine dental checkups and cleanings.
If you notice any changes in your gums, like swelling, bleeding, or tenderness, let your dentist know right away. Studies have found that pregnant women with gum disease are more likely to experience preterm birth and have babies with low birth weight, which are two outcomes that can have lasting effects on a child’s long-term health. Researchers also believe the connection may be related to oral bacteria entering the bloodstream and triggering inflammatory responses that affect the uterus.
The bottom line is, your oral health and your baby’s health are more interconnected than most people expect, but a little extra care during pregnancy can make a real difference for both of you!
About the Practice
At Kids’ Smiles on Lincoln, our team is passionate about setting little ones up for a lifetime of happy, healthy smiling. Under the leadership of Dr. Myles Clancy, we proudly offer a wide range of services for kids of all ages, including dentistry for infants. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for your child, you can reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 290-0090.