There are many myths about teeth in pregnancy. That each pregnancy costs you a tooth, that you cannot get dental treatments, however almost all of them are unfounded. Therefore, we will explain in this post how should you take care of your teeth in pregnancy.
The oral health of the pregnant woman is very important, it is a stage in which you have to pay more attention to your mouth and take care of both teeth and gums, since the bacterial flora is modified by the action of the pregnancy hormones themselves, causing are more likely to accumulate tartar and bacteria.
Why the gums bleed more
It is common for the gums to bleed when you brush your teeth. During pregnancy these are more sensitive and inflamed by the action of hormones and increased blood flow.
But if you notice that the gums bleed excessively when brushing or flossing, they are bulky, sore and red, you should see a dentist.
Most likely, you have a periodontal disease called gingivitis, a frequent infection in pregnant women caused by the long-term effects of plaque deposits.
The risk factors for gingivitis are the mother's advanced age, tobacco and diabetes. If it is treated on time it does not carry risks, so do not forget to go to the dentist if you are waiting for a baby. Without proper treatment it can lead to complications in pregnancy, it is related to nothing less than with the risk of premature delivery.
Oral hygiene habits you should follow
The increase in prolactin and estrogens causes changes in the woman's organism and also in the mouth, causing the bacterial plaque to act more aggressively on the teeth and gums.
So, caries and gingivitis prevention It is the primary goal in pregnancy.
You must take extreme care and follow healthy hygiene habits for your mouth like brushing after each meal, (change for a soft brush if the gums bleed a lot), floss through the areas where the brush cannot reach, use an antiseptic and fluoride rinse if necessary. Of course, do not forget the regular visit to the dentist.
The feeding It is also important for a healthy mouth. It reduces the consumption of sugars to prevent cavities and increases the consumption of calcium such as dairy and yogurts, in addition to consuming proteins from meat, fish and legumes that will help in the defense against infections. Vitamins such as B, C and D, will also be a good support.
Do not delay the visit to the dentist
For any problem you detect don't forget to visit the dentist. Leaving it will only aggravate the problem or, in the case of infection, that progress without treatment can lead to serious complications such as the loss of teeth or problems during pregnancy.
If you find yourself uncomfortable in the dentist's chair, especially in the third trimester when the size of the gut has increased and the vena cava is pressed, it is advisable to avoid the lying position, therefore the semi-sitting position It is the most recommended.
If they have to do an x-ray, digital ones are preferable to reduce radiation and if not, they should put an apron and lead collar on the abdomen and neck.
There is no risk for the use of anesthesia or for the amalgams or resins that are used for the treatment of caries.
