Pregnancy And Your Oral Health

Pregnancy And Your Oral Health
One of the most exciting times of your life is when you are expecting your baby. It is also a time when your health is paramount. As your pregnancy evolves, your body is constantly changing to accommodate your baby’s needs. Good oral hygiene is extremely important during pregnancy because the increase of hormone levels during pregnancy can cause dental problems to be intensified.

It is estimated that approximately 50% of pregnant women experience pregnancy gingivitis. This can be uncomfortable and cause swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness of the gum tissue. However, all gum disease ailments that become prevalent during pregnancy can be maintained if you adhere to good oral hygiene.

Pregnancy gingivitis is preventable and treatable. During the term of your pregnancy we recommend you visit our dental hygienists every 3 – 4 months so we can constantly monitor your oral health and maintain your gum and surrounding soft tissue to an optimum level.

In some severe cases, periodontal disease may develop and this can affect the health of your baby. Ongoing research studies have demonstrated a correlation between periodontal disease and preterm and low birth-weight babies.

Is preterm low birth-weight babies linked to periodontal disease?
Several studies have indicated pregnant women with periodontal disease may be up to seven times more likely to have a baby pre-term and with a low birth-weight. One likely explanation is a chemical found in oral bacteria called prostaglandin, which can induce labour. Very high levels of prostaglandin have been diagnosed in women with severe cases of periodontal disease.

What if I have periodontal disease during pregnancy?
If you have periodontal disease during pregnancy Michael Adams may recommend more frequent visits to our hygienists to have your teeth cleaned, and to maintain your gums during pregnancy.

Research results indicate that scaling and root planing may reduce the risk of preterm births in pregnant women with periodontal disease. The added bonus is that the procedure should alleviate many of the uncomfortable symptoms associated with pregnancy gingivitis, including swelling, redness and gum tenderness.

Call (08) 8212 6335 today to discuss your oral health during pregnancy and book a check up at our Adelaide CBD dental clinic to make sure you prevent periodontal disease while pregnant.