Teeth health in pregnancy
Pregnancy is a period when special attention should be given to oral hygiene and the health of teeth and gums. Read more about the most common dental issues during pregnancy and their causes.
It is very important to visit a dentist before pregnancy to address any existing dental issues and to maintain proper oral hygiene throughout pregnancy. This can help prevent unwanted complications and protect your teeth.
Why Do Dental Problems Occur During Pregnancy?
Many women who have given birth often claim that pregnancy led to rapid tooth deterioration, pain, extractions, or even the loss of healthy teeth due to gum recession and weakening of the supporting structures. However, teeth themselves do not change during pregnancy—their structure remains the same.
A common misconception is that teeth suffer during pregnancy solely due to calcium deficiency. If a baby requires more calcium, the mother’s body compensates from bone reserves, not from the teeth. The real issue stems from inadequate oral hygiene and hormonal changes.
During pregnancy, hormone levels fluctuate, which can make the teeth and gums more susceptible to bacteria, increasing the risk of dental infections. In some cases, pre-existing dental problems that were not treated before pregnancy can worsen.
The Most Common Dental Problems During Pregnancy
1. Gum Problems
The most common issue during pregnancy is gum inflammation. Due to hormonal changes, gums may become swollen, bleed while brushing, or become more sensitive. This can lead to conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
2. Pregnancy Gingivitis (Gum Inflammation)
This issue affects a large number of pregnant women and can be quite uncomfortable. Food particles become trapped between the teeth and gums, attracting bacteria that cause inflammation, redness, swelling, and bleeding. Pregnancy gingivitis most commonly occurs in the second trimester.
3. Periodontitis
If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, a severe condition that damages the bone and tissues supporting the teeth. This can lead to tooth loss and serious infections that may also affect the baby.
4. Morning Sickness
Stomach acids can erode tooth enamel. To prevent further damage, avoid brushing your teeth immediately after vomiting. Instead, rinse your mouth with water or a mouthwash, or apply toothpaste to your teeth with your fingers before rinsing. Wait at least an hour before brushing.
5. Nausea While Brushing
During the first trimester, some women experience nausea and gagging when brushing their teeth. If this happens, try using a smaller toothbrush or rinsing with mouthwash. You can also brush your teeth without toothpaste temporarily, but avoid doing this for too long, as toothpaste is essential for maintaining proper oral hygiene.
6. Cavities
Many women experience an increased craving for snacks, especially sweets, during pregnancy. Since sugar contributes to cavities, be sure to rinse your mouth with water or milk after consuming sugary foods. Ideally, brush your teeth after every sugar intake.
How Do Dental Problems Affect the Baby?
Periodontitis can lead to premature birth or low birth weight. Therefore, it is essential to visit a dentist and take necessary preventive measures. Additionally, gum or oral infections can spread to the rest of the body and lead to pregnancy complications or even miscarriage.
Dental Treatment During Pregnancy
It is recommended to visit a dentist at least once during pregnancy, ideally twice. Always inform your dentist that you are pregnant.
Any gum swelling, bleeding, pain, or discomfort in the mouth should be reported to the dentist immediately.
During the first trimester, the focus is on preventive oral hygiene education, periodontal pocket treatment, and urgent dental procedures.
The second trimester is considered the safest time for routine dental treatments. This period should be used to eliminate potential dental problems that could cause complications later in pregnancy or after birth.
At the end of the eighth month and during the ninth month, routine dental treatments are not recommended, as expectant mothers may feel uncomfortable in the dental chair. If treatment is necessary, procedures should be kept as short as possible, and the patient should be positioned in a comfortable way. Major periodontal treatments should be postponed until after birth.
During pregnancy, medications that can cross the placenta and harm the baby (such as codeine, tetracyclines, streptomycin, diazepam, and barbiturates) should be avoided.
X-rays During Pregnancy
Although dental X-rays involve minimal radiation exposure, it is best to avoid them during pregnancy, especially in the first 12 weeks. If an X-ray is necessary, it should be done using proper protective measures for both the mother and baby.
Fluoride Supplementation
Fluoride intake can positively impact the composition and quality of the baby’s teeth. Pregnant women may take 1 mg of fluoride daily from the beginning of pregnancy until the end of breastfeeding. After breastfeeding, the baby can be given a quarter of a fluoride tablet daily until the age of four, after which the dosage increases. Green vegetables contain fluoride but in small amounts.
How to Prevent Dental Problems During Pregnancy
The best way to avoid dental issues during pregnancy is to maintain good oral health before conception. If you are planning a pregnancy, it is advisable to visit your dentist to address any existing problems and receive advice on how to keep your teeth healthy.
During pregnancy:
- Maintain proper oral hygiene.
- Follow your dentist’s recommendations.
- Attend regular dental check-ups.
- Seek immediate dental care for any gum issues.
- Eat a balanced diet, limit sugary foods, and ensure sufficient calcium and vitamin D intake.
- Use a soft toothbrush to reduce gum irritation and replace your toothbrush regularly to prevent bacterial buildup.
Proper oral care and timely action can help prevent many unwanted complications and ensure both your and your baby’s well-being.