Dental Health During Pregnancy Fort Pierce, FL
Looking for a complete health dentist during pregnancy can be stressful. The hormonal changes associated with pregnancy may lead to issues with oral health. Additionally, some forms of dental disease may negatively affect a developing baby. A good prenatal dentist understands the importance of the oral-systemic link and how it applies to expectant mothers.
Prenatal dentistry is available at Fort Pierce Smiles in Fort Pierce and the surrounding area. Our compassionate and skilled staff is here to help assist you throughout your entire pregnancy. Call us today at (772) 232-7073 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.
Common Dental Conditions During Pregnancy
It is vital for pregnant women to pay heightened attention to all aspects of their health, including dental health. For some women, pregnancy increases the production of plaque. This sudden increase may lead to gum disease and heighten the risk of tooth decay, among other dental problems. Such issues typically occur due to hormone changes, though other causes may include cravings for sugary foods, gum problems, retching while brushing teeth, and vomiting.
Pregnant women frequently experience cavities, gingivitis, loose teeth, periodontal disease, pregnancy tumors, and tooth erosion. Gingivitis is particularly common, affecting 60 to 75% of expectant mothers. Symptoms involve bleeding gums, redness and swelling, shiny gums, and tenderness in the gums. If left untreated, it can progress into a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis.
“For some women, pregnancy increases the production of plaque.”
Why Total Health Dentistry During Pregnancy
Expectant mothers should keep a close eye on their dental health, as pregnancy increases the risk of complications with the gums or teeth. If these complications lead to periodontitis, there will be a higher chance of the baby being born prematurely or at a low birth weight. Periodontitis is also associated with various systemic health problems, which could further endanger both the mother and the unborn child.
Conversely, pregnant women with preexisting conditions may be more susceptible to dental issues. This can lead to a never-ending cycle of health problems, making it extra crucial for expectant mothers to see a total health dentist. While most traditional dentists treat isolated conditions, complete health dentists treat the patient's health in its entirety. In other words, they account for any risk factors that may affect a person's ideal treatment plan.
“Expectant mothers should keep a close eye on their dental health, as pregnancy increases the risk of complications with the gums or teeth.”
Taking Care of Dental Health During Pregnancy
Expectant mothers are prone to neglecting their dental health due to high levels of fatigue and frequent snacking. Additionally, morning sickness may wear away at the tooth enamel, while hormonal changes may lead to pregnancy gingivitis. Unfortunately, however, a pregnant woman's oral health can directly affect her unborn baby's health.
Excess bacteria growth in the mouth can enter the bloodstream through the gums and make its way to the uterus, which may induce premature labor. Furthermore, once the baby arrives, the mother may potentially pass on the bacteria to the newborn through vertical transmission. As such, it is critical that pregnant women brush at least twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste, floss nightly, and eat a well-balanced diet. Keeping regular appointments with the dentist is also crucial.
“…once the baby arrives, the mother may potentially pass on the bacteria to the newborn through vertical transmission.”
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Total Health Dentistry and Overall Health
According to WebMD, the mouth acts as an entryway to the digestive and respiratory tracts. This makes it a natural breeding ground for bacteria. Though most of such bacteria are harmless, they may quickly multiply to dangerously high levels if the patient does not practice proper oral hygiene. It should come as no surprise that oral health goes hand in hand with various systemic health conditions — particularly heart health and sleep.
Snoring and other sleep disturbances are often indicative of sleep apnea, which may be caused by oral health issues. Additionally, research also suggests that dental bacteria cause inflammation and infections that may lead to clogged arteries, heart disease, and stroke. Our team can perform a comprehensive review of a patient's medical history, current condition, and any other pertinent information to get them to a healthy mouth baseline.
“It should come as no surprise that oral health is linked to various other systemic health conditions — particularly heart health and sleep.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are some of the common dental conditions that occur during pregnancy?
Q. Why should I see a total health dentist during pregnancy?
Q. How should I take care of my dental health during pregnancy?
People Also Ask
Q. How does oral health affect the gut and immune system?
Q. How can someone find out what procedures their dental insurance covers?
Q. What are the health risks of gum disease?
FAQs
Q. Can I receive local anesthetics for dental treatment while pregnant?
A. Yes. According to the American Dental Association, local anesthetics are safe for pregnant mothers. Consequently, pregnant patients do not have to worry about the safety of receiving numbing medication during dental treatment.
Q. What happens if I get a pregnancy tumor?
A. A pregnancy tumor appears red and raw-looking. These lumps can bleed easily but will typically disappear after pregnancy. If the lumps remain after the patient's baby is born, our team can help remove them.
Q. Is it safe to receive an X-ray during pregnancy?
A. Yes. It is safe for pregnant patients to have an X-ray during pregnancy. While the radiation from dental X-rays is extremely low, our team will take all the necessary precautions to keep patients safe. We will cover them with a leaded apron to shield the abdomen and a leaded collar to protect the thyroid.
Q. How does smoking affect dental health during pregnancy?
A. Pregnant women should not smoke while pregnant. Smoking adversely affects oral health, especially gums. The numerous acids and chemicals in cigarettes directly affect the mother's oral and overall health and the baby's.
Q. What are the symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis?
A. Pregnancy gingivitis typically occurs during the second and eighth months of pregnancy. The symptoms of this condition will range depending on its severity. Early symptoms may appear as red and inflamed gums, while more advanced stages can result in severe swelling and bleeding.
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Dental Terminology
Call Us Today
Proper dental care is essential for both expectant mothers and unborn babies during pregnancy. We at Fort Pierce Smiles may be able to help. Call us today at 772-232-7073 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
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