Understanding the Importance of Oral Hygiene during Pregnancy
The mouth is the gateway to your body. It’s where food goes in, but it can also be a source of disease. Oral health and hygiene is important for everyone, but it becomes even more crucial during pregnancy. There are many reasons why oral hygiene during pregnancy is so important: increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease, difficulty with brushing due to morning sickness or sore gums, changes in taste buds that make some foods taste worse, and hormonal changes that can affect the production of saliva in your mouth.
This blog post will tell you about the different oral health risks during pregnancy, importance of oral hygiene during pregnancy and provide tips for keeping your mouth healthy.
Why oral hygiene plays a crucial role during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the body undergoes various changes, and one such change is an increase in the production of hormones. Due to hormonal changes, dental problems during pregnancy, including gingivitis is quite common. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, and it is very common during pregnancy. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, which can have serious consequences for both mother and baby. Therefore, good oral hygiene is essential during pregnancy to prevent these problems from developing. Also, these hormonal changes can alter the taste of food and cause a person to experience nausea. Not only does this change in the flavor profile affect appetite, but it has effects on oral health as well. The increased levels of estrogen that are found during pregnancy can lead to swelling and dryness, which is why pregnant women should ensure they follow proper oral hygiene techniques and maintain an overall dental care routine throughout their pregnancy.
Common dental risks during pregnancy
There are a number of dental risks that pregnant women should be aware of. One such risk is gingivitis, which was mentioned earlier. Other risks include:
Periodontal disease is a serious problem that can affect both mother and baby if left untreated. It can cause premature birth, low birth weight, and even death.
Tooth decay: Pregnancy increases the risk of tooth decay as the increase in hormones causes the mouth to become drier. Saliva helps to protect teeth from decay, so when saliva production decreases, tooth decay becomes more likely.
Swelling and tenderness of the gums: The gums may swell and become tender due to the hormonal changes taking place in the body during pregnancy.
Tooth sensitivity: Some pregnant women experience increased tooth sensitivity during pregnancy, which can be problematic if they brush too harshly or use a hard bristle brush. It’s important to use a soft-bristled, child-sized toothbrush while pregnant.
Dry mouth: Like saliva production, there is also a decrease in the amount of mucus found within the mouth. This can lead to dryness, so pregnant women should drink lots of water throughout the day.
Bruxism: Pregnant women may experience grinding or clenching of their teeth due to stress and fatigue during pregnancy. The combination of these factors increases the risk for tooth decay as well as damage to teeth that have already been treated for cavities or other potential dental problems.
Erosion: Another issue that pregnant women face is erosion caused by increased acidity levels in their mouths from vomiting, stomach bugs, etc.,
Some signs you might notice if you’re experiencing gum disease are bleeding gums when brushing/flossing, swollen gums that are tender to the touch, and bone loss. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with your dentist so he or she can administer a thorough exam in order to treat the problem before it worsens.
Key tips for maintaining oral health during pregnancy
Following a proper oral hygiene routine is crucial to the health of your teeth and gums during pregnancy. Here are some tips for improving your dental care regimen:
- Make sure you brush at least twice a day, floss once a day, and use mouth-wash regularly
- Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn down
- If possible, avoid sugary snacks between meals as they can cause cavities when eaten frequently over time
