First time mothers, and even those women who will have their second or third child already, are very cautious before engaging into different medical procedures because of fear that it might affect the unborn baby in a negative way. One of the things taken into careful consideration is the appointment and visits to the dentist. Some say that having dental work while pregnant will result to a premature birth of the baby. Well the truth is; that is one of the fallacies pregnant women blindly follow. In fact it is highly recommended to take trips to the dentist to avoid abnormal buildup of plaque in the oral cavity.
Study shows that when women are pregnant, there is an excessive production of the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are present abundantly because they strengthen the baby’s hold to the mother. They make sure that the baby is well-kept and intact in the uterus for the entire duration of the pregnancy. But these same hormones, which circulate the body via the blood, may cause some complication to the mother.
What happens if I don’t go the dentist?
When these hormones’ level is high, there are more risks that the pregnant women face because of not going to the dentist, than actually going to the dentist. They may suffer from:
(1)Pregnancy gingivitis. This is a less serious form gum disease that the pregnant women may acquire from plaque buildup. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and bleeding of gums.
a. In rare cases, pregnant women may also develop so-called pregnancy tumors which not actual tumors but rather nodules that form on the surface of the gums. These outgrowths are so sensitive they can cause gum bleeding even in slightest contact with solid objects. (Symptoms same with gingivitis)
(2)The development of a more serious gum disease (periodontitis) is also likely. If left untreated, this will cause the surrounding gum tissues and bones to which the teeth are anchored to slowly detach from the infected teeth. This leads the teeth to loosen and eventually fall off.
How will I avoid gum diseases?
(1)Follow recommended diet (more on the organic, less of the synthetic) and if possible cut back on the sweets especially if your gums became extra sensitive with your pregnancy.
(2)Be more stringent with your oral hygiene. Brush and floss every after meal.
(3)See your dentist regularly for cleaning, at least twice during your pregnancy (preferably during second trimester). But if you notice something unusual with your oral health, frequent the visits.
What else can I do while at the dentist?
Well aside from the cleaning; if your dentist finds a cavity it will likely be suggested for you address it. It will be best to close off the cavity before it can cause other complications. But anything else that will require anesthesia and exposure to xray shall be postponed after giving birth. So are other major dental works such as tooth extraction.
