Many people think that you'll need to have the same dental routine for most of your life. However, women may need to add a step or two to their dental care routine because they could experience some dental health changes when they're pregnant.
Pregnancy affects your whole body, and with that comes some dental problems. Some pregnant women may experience dental issues and are more susceptible to problems. This includes gum disease and tooth decay, particularly since hormones can be a huge trigger for these conditions.
Of course, the same old golden trick of brushing your teeth twice a day and going on regular visits to your dental house can keep your dental woes at bay, but is there more you can do?
As you go through the thrilling journey of pregnancy, you'll go through many changes — your lifestyle, habits, body, and routines will change. Even with the waves of changes, having good oral health is crucial for good gestation and healthy babies.
In this article, we'll share with you some dental health tips you should remember when you're expecting. Let's take a look!
Morning Sickness
One of the things you may often experience when you're pregnant is morning sickness. When you have morning sickness, you experience a repeated influx of stomach acid in your oral cavity. The acid then softens your tooth enamel, exposing your teeth to various problems, including tooth decay and sensitivity.
So when you're having morning sickness, and you've just vomited, don't brush your teeth immediately as it erodes your teeth's surface and softens your enamel.
Gestational Gingivitis
A dental issue most common with pregnant women is gingivitis. Gingivitis is a condition where your gums become swollen, tender, and inflamed. This issue happens when there is too much plaque and bacteria buildup caused by poor oral hygiene and a rush of hormones for pregnant women.
For this issue, deep cleaning is a must during your second and third trimesters. This is why it's imperative to book appointments at your trusty dental house during these times to avoid any dental complications.
Dental Tumors
What many people don't know is that pregnant women can have dental tumors. These tumors are soft, red, berry-like growths that arise on the gums when you're pregnant. These lesions often appear in the setting of pre-existing gingivitis, which often happens during the second trimester.
However, removing these granulomas isn't necessary and usually disappears after pregnancy. But to avoid them completely, you must follow a strict dental routine and get deep cleaning starting from your second trimester.
Loose Teeth
Because you have high progesterone and estrogen levels during pregnancy, these changes can greatly affect the tissue and bones of your oral cavity. So besides dealing with gingivitis advances to periodontitis, your gums may also recede and lose bone from the jaw.
When this happens, infections in the structure of your oral cavity could result in loose teeth. And because of that, you need to take good care of your gums by going to regular dentist appointments, getting deep cleaning sessions, scaling, and maintaining proper oral habits.
The Bottom Line: You Need To Step Up Your Dental Routine When You're Pregnant
Now that you're pregnant, being aware of the dental issues you may encounter could help you maintain fantastic oral health. Besides following a strict at-home dental routine, make sure to visit a credible dental house regularly, get your teeth checked, and get your oral cavity deep cleaned to avoid any dental complications while you're pregnant.
How Can Dental House MI Help You?
If you're looking for a dental house in Ypsilanti, MI, look no further — Dental House MI can help you.
Our exceptional dental practices offer various dental services, including preventive dentistry, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, oral surgery, advanced dental technology, and dental implants. Book an appointment with us today!