Congratulations on the future expansion of your family! Over the next three trimesters, you’re going to be going through a fantastic adventure. As with any adventure, there are going to be perils to overcome as well as beautiful moments. With the right team behind you, including medical professionals and your family, everyone will arrive healthy at the end. The first step on your journey is going to be ensuring you’re aware of the risks. Your body is going to undergo some complicated changes that affect all aspects of your health. Your oral health will be most impacted by the extra nutrient drain and hormonal changes.
Understanding The Rigors Of Pregnancy And Your Oral Health
Every pregnancy is going to be different. The mother’s health at the time of her pregnancy, her medical history, and environmental factors all make a difference. One thing that affects every woman going through pregnancy is hormonal changes. These changes to her testosterone, progesterone and estrogen levels can cause a condition known as ‘gestational gingivitis.’
Oral health during pregnancy has been a subject of ongoing scientific study. These studies have shown that, along with the mother’s oral health, the long-term oral health of her growing child can be affected. Children born to mothers who experience oral health concerns while pregnant are more likely to have oral health problems. These concerns can include the early development of cavities. Additional points of concern are as follows:
- Periodontal Disease: This condition often results from gestational gingivitis
- Enamel Erosion: Morning sickness is a severe point of concern for many women while pregnant. The feelings of nausea and vomiting that come with it have oral health implications. The enamel of the teeth experiences higher exposure to acid. This exposure causes the enamel to weaken and become more prone to erosion. This information all adds up to mean pregnant women are at higher risk of developing cavities.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: The development of a child places significant strain on the body’s nutrient levels. If the mother’s diet doesn’t include sufficient resources, the body will pull on whatever is available. It’s common for pregnant women to be prescribed vitamin supplements as a result.
You’ve got plenty to worry about during your pregnancy. We know adding oral health to the list is a lot. However, it’s also the best way to ensure that you retain a beautiful smile throughout. Your oral health choices also have a lasting effect on the health of the developing child. One uncommon concern that overly cautious pregnant women face is that of over-brushing. If you’re concerned that you may be brushing too much, speak to your dentist.
Consult Your Dental Provider For Further Oral Health Tips
In addition to speaking to your primary care provider and OBGYN, remember to consult your dentist. While most patients see their dentist only twice a year, adding another visit during your pregnancy may benefit you. This visit will permit your dentist to track the progress of your oral health throughout the trimesters. Give yourself the best chance for a healthy smile and baby by visiting your dentist today!
