Experiencing a pregnancy is an incredible journey that brings with it many bodily transformations. Although most expecting mothers make sure to look after their physical health, they often forget about caring for their oral hygiene.
Oral care during pregnancy is equally as essential since the changes in physiology can have tremendous effects on dental well-being. This is why it’s essential to visit a dentist in Raleigh, NC regularly throughout pregnancy.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the various ways pregnancy can affect oral care and what you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy during this critical time.
Pregnancy Gingivitis: What Is It And How Does It Affect Oral Care?
The heightened levels of hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, that are triggered during pregnancy can lead to a common condition called Pregnancy Gingivitis.
This type of gum disease is caused by an increased sensitivity to bacteria, prompting inflammation and swelling around the gums. Symptoms include redness, tenderness and some bleeding when brushing or flossing your teeth – all signs that should not be ignored.
If left untreated, pregnancy gingivitis can worsen and become periodontal disease – a more severe gum disorder. This can lead to tooth loss and other complications, making it crucial to seek treatment from a dentist in Raleigh, NC, as soon as possible.
How Can You Prevent Pregnancy Gingivitis?
To protect against pregnancy gingivitis, there are some simple yet effective measures to put into place. Great oral hygiene is essential and should include brushing twice daily and flossing at least once a day in order to remove any plaque or food particles that may be causing inflammation.
To maintain strong teeth and gums, integrate a healthy diet that contains essential vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D into your daily routine.
Also, it is important to steer clear of sugary or acidic foods which can harm tooth enamel leading to cavities. Doing this will keep your pearly whites in tip-top shape for many years.
Finally, make sure to visit a dentist in Raleigh, NC regularly for cleanings and checkups. This will help identify any potential dental problems early on and prevent them from worsening.
Pregnancy Tumors: What Are They And How Do They Affect Oral Care?
A particular dental problem that can arise in pregnant women is known as pregnancy tumors. These non-threatening bumps generally develop on the gums, tongue or cheeks and are of a reddish hue which makes them easily bleed when brushing or flossing.
It is uncertain what causes pregnancy tumors, however, they are believed to be related to the hormonal fluctuations that occur while pregnant.
Although these growths may not look pleasant or feel comfortable, generally speaking, they are benign and will dissipate without medical treatment after delivery.
How Can You Manage Pregnancy Tumors?
If you are experiencing pregnancy tumors, there are several ways to help keep them under control. It starts with excellent oral hygiene habits so as to avoid any further irritation and possible infection.
Additionally, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water may also assist in reducing inflammation and providing some relief from the discomfort they cause.
If the pregnancy tumors become too uncomfortable, your dentist in Raleigh, NC may recommend removing them. However, this is usually not necessary, as they will disappear on their own after pregnancy.
Morning Sickness: How Does It Affect Oral Care?
Pregnant women often experience morning sickness, which can be a harmless but uncomfortable condition during the first trimester.
Unfortunately, it also carries potential repercussions for oral health – stomach acid that is vomited up can cause erosion of tooth enamel and raise the risk of tooth decay. Sometimes, it can even lead to the loss of tooth structure.
How Can You Prevent Tooth Decay From Morning Sickness?
To protect your dental health from morning sickness, it’s essential to rinse out your mouth with water or an antacid-containing mouthwash after vomiting. This will help reduce the acidity in your saliva and prevent damage to tooth enamel.
Brushing your teeth right after vomiting can further damage the enamel of your teeth, so it’s best to wait for around 30 minutes. By that time, enough saliva will have been produced in order to reduce and neutralize any acidic residue in your mouth.
Taking these precautionary steps can go a long way toward preventing cavities and other related issues caused by frequent vomiting during pregnancy.
If you’re struggling with morning sickness, talk to your dentist in Raleigh, NC about ways to manage it. They may be able to recommend specific foods or supplements that can help alleviate your symptoms.
The Importance Of Dental Care During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, women must take extra precautions with regard to their dental health. Hormone fluctuations and other factors can make them more vulnerable to gum disease, tooth decay, and additional oral issues.
By prioritizing preventive care now, soon-to-be mothers can help protect themselves from costly dental problems down the road.
That’s why it’s essential to visit a dentist in Raleigh, NC regularly during pregnancy.
At New Hope Dental Care, our team of experienced dental professionals can help you maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental problems during pregnancy.
We offer a wide range of services, including cleanings, checkups, and treatments for gum disease and other dental issues.
Don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us today! We are dedicated to providing you with a personalized dental care plan that is tailored based on your individual needs. Through an individual approach, we will ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy during pregnancy.