Oral Hygiene During Pregnancy

Many dentists receive phone calls from patients who complain of tooth or gum pain. This may seem all too common, but what if these patients also happen to be pregnant? Experiencing tooth and gum pain is a common dilemma for pregnant women—and there are many solutions that provide relief.

Recent studies conducted by the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry stress that oral hygiene is a strong indicator of overall health, and is of the utmost importance during pregnancy. This is because during pregnancy, there is a clear increase in hormone levels, which results in the teeth and gums being more susceptible to bacterial accumulation. Bacteria may be transmitted from a pregnant woman’s mouth to her unborn child through the blood and amniotic fluid. If bacteria is transmitted from mother to baby, the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, premature contractions, and infection become heightened.

There are several common oral hygiene conditions associated with pregnancy. One of these is pregnancy gingivitis, which results when bacteria becomes trapped between teeth. This condition yields symptoms such as: red, swollen, tender, or receding gums; pus along the gum line; bad breath; spaces between teeth; the sensation of loose teeth and/or change in bite. If left untreated, pregnancy gingivitis may evolve into periodontal disease, or periodontis, which can lead to bone and gum tissue deterioration. This condition yields symptoms such as: bleeding, inflamed, or tender gums; chronic bad breath; tooth loss and infection. However, at times periodontis may produce no noticeable symptoms, in which case it is even more imperative to visit your dentist for a check-up. Periodontis increases the likelihood for pre-term labor and low birth weight babies.

Pyogenic granulomas, or pregnancy tumors, make it difficult for women to eat and speak. This condition causes symptoms such as sore, swollen, sensitive, or bleeding gums. Women who have previously suffered from gingivitis or periodontis are prone to these conditions. Luckily, they can be removed by your dentist. Additionally, enamel erosion occurs when stomach acid erodes the teeth. Stomach acid gathers in the mouth as a result of the nausea and regurgitation associated with morning sickness. The teeth are adversely affected, as remnants of this acid erode enamel.

It is best to treat existing conditions prior to becoming pregnant, even though many can be managed when diagnosed early enough, because pregnant women should refrain from certain treatments. Pregnant women are advised to avoid being exposed to X-rays, despite the low amount of radiation emitted from them. Similarly, pregnant women should avoid enduring extensive dental work; sitting for a long duration of time puts pressure on the major blood vessel that supplies blood to the lower extremities, resulting in a feeling of faintness.

There are many precautionary measures pregnant women should take to prevent tooth and gum damage. Schedule dental appointments for check-ups and cleanings during the second trimester, when progesterone and estrogen levels are high. Brush teeth and tongue with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily to remove plaque and bacteria buildup, and floss daily to remove any debris inaccessible by a toothbrush. Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash after meals and morning sickness to deflect halitosis and gingivitis. Chew xylitol gum to decrease tooth decay. Eat nutritiously—avoid foods that are high in sugar, as they create plaque; plaque turns to acid, thus destroying enamel. Limit sharing food and utensils to avoid oral bacteria transmission.

Also, increase vitamin D intake, as it helps with the formation of babies’ tooth enamel.

Always speak to your dentist and medical doctor to discuss any health concerns and to determine whether any procedure or regimen is considered safe, for both you and your unborn child. If you know someone who is pregnant, or who is thinking about becoming pregnant, do a mitzvah by passing along this valuable oral hygiene information.
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Dr Alan B. Singer was born and raised in Brooklyn. He graduated from NYU in 1985 and has been a community member for over 20 years. His office is located on Avenue T and Ocean Parkway.