When you are pregnant, it is especially important to take care of your teeth and gums. Pregnancy can cause some changes in your oral health, and some of these changes can increase your risk for cavities, gum disease, and other problems.
Good oral hygiene is important for pregnant women because it can help prevent these problems from developing or help keep them from getting worse.
Below are the reasons why pregnant women need dental care;
1- To Prevent Gum Disease
Gum disease is a condition in which the gums become inflamed, leading to tooth loss. Pregnancy can cause gum disease because of the hormone increase, making the gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation. Regular dental care can help prevent gum disease or at least prevent it from worsening.
2- To prevent cavities
Cavities are another common oral health problem that can occur during pregnancy. The increase in hormones can make the teeth more susceptible to decay, and the increased sugar in the diet can also contribute to cavities. Regular dental care can help prevent cavities from developing or at least keep them from worsening.
3- To reduce the risk of preterm labor
Some studies have shown a link between gum disease and preterm labor. This is because the bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to the uterus, where they can cause inflammation. This inflammation can lead to preterm labor. Taking care of your teeth and gums can help reduce the risk of preterm labor.
4- To reduce the risk of low birth weight
Some studies have also shown a link between gum disease and low birth weight. This is because the bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to the placenta, where they can cause inflammation. This inflammation can lead to low birth weight. Taking care of your teeth and gums can help reduce the risk of low birth weight.
5- To reduce the risk of tooth loss
Pregnancy can also cause tooth loss. This is because the hormones can make the gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation. The inflammation can lead to the breakdown of the periodontal ligaments, which hold the teeth in place. Taking care of your teeth and gums can help reduce the risk of tooth loss.
6- To improve your overall health
Good oral hygiene is important for your overall health. The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, where they can cause inflammation. This inflammation can lead to health problems like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. By taking care of your teeth and gums, you can help improve your overall health.
7- To reduce the risk of infection
Pregnancy can also weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infection. The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, where they can cause infection. Taking care of your teeth and gums can help reduce the risk of infection.
Schedule an appointment with Dominic Thorncroft to help keep your smile healthy and bright during your pregnancy!
