Impact of Pregnancy on Oral Health

It's common for pregnant women to experience excessive tooth decay and gum disease due to hormonal changes. Hormonal changes during pregnancy cause an increase in blood flow to the gums, which can increase the growth of bacteria in the mouth.

Pregnancy and Gum Disease

During pregnancy, elevated levels of estrogen and other hormones can affect a woman's gums and make them more susceptible to gum disease. Studies have shown links between poor oral hygiene and reduced birth weight in babies. Pregnant women are encouraged to visit the dentist within a few months of conceiving. When a baby is on the way, maintaining good oral health becomes even more important.

If periodontal disease is present during pregnancy, treatment is typically recommended during the second trimester. After delivery, regular cleanings and checkups should be scheduled to ensure healthy teeth and gums for both mother and baby. Keeping up with daily oral care will help keep bacteria levels low and prevent any infection from spreading to your baby.

Pregnancy and Tooth Decay

During pregnancy, your body experiences hormonal changes that can increase your risk for tooth decay. This is because of an increase in progesterone levels in your body. These hormones soften your gum tissues, which makes it easier for plaque to stick to your teeth. Plaque that is not removed can eventually turn into tartar, which will cause decay.

In addition to experiencing dry mouth, because you have less saliva in your mouth due to hormone changes, you may also experience morning sickness, which can cause vomiting. This can cause stomach acid to come in contact with your teeth, which can lead to enamel erosion.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do during your pregnancy to keep your mouth clean and prevent problems. If you brush your teeth immediately after throwing up, you can prevent bacteria from harming your teeth. You should also visit your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups during this time.

If tooth decay does occur during pregnancy, it is important to get it treated as soon as possible. Untreated cavities can lead to infection in the tooth or in the gums. Infections can lead to premature labor and low birth weight in newborns. They can also have a negative impact on the overall health of the baby.

We request you schedule a consultation with our team of dental experts to get all your oral concerns addressed at the earliest. Please call us at (435) 713-0096 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll be happy to help.