Overview:
Pregnancy is a unique period of a woman's life; where many physical changes occur; which may affect oral health, and at the same time oral and dental health is the key to health in general; Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment are safe and effective practices for improving the health of a pregnant woman, in addition to being important for the health of the fetus as well.
Consequences of neglecting dental cleaning:
Neglecting to brush and paste the teeth leads to accumulation of plaque on teeth surfaces. This leads to an increase in the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum infections, as the bacteria produce acids that attack teeth and lead to breakage and cavities. Other types of bacteria also cause gum infections.
Toothbrush change:
It is recommended to change them every three or four months, or when their bristles are worn out; This is to maintain its cleaning effectiveness and not harm the gum tissue.
Common dental problems during pregnancy:
There are several problems that are more likely to occur during pregnancy, and return to normal after childbirth, including:
- Gingivitis: It may occur due to hormonal changes that increase the response of gum tissue to bacteria.
- Tooth decay: It is not a disease that occurs due to pregnancy, but is caused by bacteria and wrong eating habits. Diet changes during pregnancy (such as increased snacking), acidity in the mouth due to vomiting, dry mouth, or poor oral hygiene due to nausea and vomiting may occur.
- Dental erosion: It occurs as a result of vomiting caused by morning nausea, as it is known during the first trimester of pregnancy to frequent vomiting and reflux, which causes stomach acids to touch the teeth.
- Pregnancy tumors (pyogenic granuloma): It is an increased growth of tissue on the gums, which may occur due to hormonal changes in the body.
Gingivitis:
Healthy gums are pink in color, tight to hold the teeth, and never bleed when touched or brushed.
Gingivitis often does not cause any pain, and the person may not know that he has it, so it is recommended to conduct a periodic examination of the mouth and teeth.
Symptoms of gingivitis during pregnancy:
- Redness and swelling of the gums.
- Bleeding gums after brushing or flossing
- Tooth sensitivity.
- Difficulty or pain while chewing.
- Teeth falling out.
When to see a doctor:
- When there are minor problems in the mouth and teeth.
- When bleeding occurs in the gums while brushing the teeth.
- If the last visit to the dentist is before 6 months of pregnancy.
The dentist must be told about pregnancy before starting any procedure, as well as about all medications and vitamins that are taken, to avoid any conflict with the doctor's procedures and treatment plan.
Prevention of oral and dental problems during pregnancy:
- Dental hygiene should be taken care of during pregnancy more than at any time. Because pregnancy increases the risk of gum infections.
- Vomiting makes the teeth directly exposed to stomach acids, so you should not clean (brush) the teeth immediately after it; This exposes the teeth to stomach acids.
- It is recommended to rinse a glass of water mixed with a teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate after vomiting, in order to reduce the acidity of the mouth.
- Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush for two minutes, and use toothpaste that contains fluoride, while making sure to clean between the teeth with floss and other things once a day.
- Use a mouthwash that is free of alcohol, sugars, or fresheners that irritate the gums.
- Ensure a good rinsing after eating.
- The doctor may advise the use of topical fluoride therapy; To reduce tooth wear.
- Do not delay the treatment of minor dental problems; to avoid its development.
- Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Chew food well to strengthen jaw muscles and facilitate digestion and metabolism.
- Ensure proper nutrition, and follow the following instructions:
- Avoid eating foods rich in sugar (e.g.: sweets).
- Choose low-sugar snacks (such as: cheese, vegetables, etc.).
- Clean your mouth quickly after eating, especially sugars, even if they are of natural origin.
- Make sure to drink water and milk, and avoid juices rich in sugar and soft drinks.