How Pregnancy May Affect Your Teeth and Gums

Posted on 6/3/2024 by Life Long Dental

pregnant woman sitting int he grass and making a heart shape with her hands covering her belly

Pregnancy comes with many changes in your body. Did you know these changes are said to affect oral health? You must understand these effects and their influence on the health of you and that of your growing baby. Let us delve into how pregnancy can influence your oral health.

Increased Risk of Gum Disease

Hormonal changes in pregnancy can make the gums more vulnerable to plaque, which, in turn, makes them inflamed, red, and prone to bleeding, a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. Also, severe gum diseases, such as periodontitis, have been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight.

Tooth Decay

Pregnancy may increase the risk of tooth decay through several means. One is through changes in eating habits, such as more frequent snacks or a desire for sugary items. Morning sickness can also contribute to decay because the acid from your stomach can erode your tooth enamel. Remember to rinse your mouth with water after every episode of morning sickness and wait at least a few minutes before brushing to protect your tooth enamel.

Pregnancy Tumors

While the name may sound a bit frightening, pregnancy tumors are nothing but an increase of tissue on the gums, most often developing during your second trimester. They are not cancerous; they usually regrow into ordinary gum soon after your baby is born. Contact your dentist if these growths are painful or if you need to change your eating and tooth-cleaning habits.

Maintaining Your Oral Health During Pregnancy

Schedule regular dental checkups. Practice good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Maintain a healthy diet, limiting sugary snacks.

Your Dental Partner Through Your Pregnancy Journey

At our clinic, we fully understand your dental needs at this critical time for you and your baby. Our dental team will be here for you with diligent care and concern that meets those needs. Take dental problems off the long list of stresses that pregnancy brings. Give us a call to schedule a checkup today! Do not let avoidable problems with your teeth be an issue to worry about, both for you and the health of your baby!

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Life Long Dental

3100 NW Bucklin Hill Rd, Suite 209, Silverdale, WA 98383

Phone

(360) 633-2377

Fax

(360) 692-8863

Email

info@lifelongdental.com

Office Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday-Friday: 7:30am–4:30pm

Address

3100 NW Bucklin Hill Rd, Suite 209, Silverdale, WA 98383

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Dental Blog - Silverdale, WA • Life Long Dental
Dr. Gillespie has created this informative blog to help educate the community. Did you like a topic? Please contact us today! Life Long Dental is your dentist in Silverdale, WA.
Life Long Dental, 3100 NW Bucklin Hill Rd, Suite 209, Silverdale, WA 98383 / (360) 633-2377 / lifelongdental.com / 10/7/2024 / Related Terms: Dentist Silverdale WA /