Pregnant women are vulnerable to various dental health issues. One of them includes gingivitis, linked to hormonal imbalance. Due to the increased production of progesterone and estrogen, several changes occur in the body; one of them being increased sensitivity in the gums. There has also been a link between tooth decay and pregnancy. Several theories state that this happens because of the fetus's need for calcium. Evidence can also point to increased nausea and vomiting. Vomiting makes the mouth more acidic, eroding the tooth enamel, and causing tooth decay. Therefore, there are several steps and precautions that pregnant women need to take to prevent dental issues. These steps will focus on their nutrition, dental hygiene, dental treatments, and dietary guidance.
Nutrition
A calcium-rich diet will benefit the mother and help complement the calcium in the body. Foods such as vegetables and dairy products are rich in calcium. Taking calcium supplements is also important.
Dietary Constraints
There are several foods that the mother will be advised to discontinue during pregnancy. Sugar and dried fruits should be avoided as much as possible as they can accelerate tooth decay. Also, smoking and drinking should be discontinued during pregnancy as they only worsen their dental issues. Consequently, they result in dental anomalies in the fetus, aside from the general health risk of using while pregnant.
Dental Treatments
Your dentist will probably wait for your doctor's recommendation before performing dental procedures, especially in the first trimester. The first trimester is a delicate stage of pregnancy, and any invasive treatment can cause miscarriage. Most invasive treatments can wait for the second trimester, which is safer. However, this should not stop the mother from seeking dental treatments since most dental problems can affect the fetus if ignored, due to the infections that result from issues like gingivitis.
Dentist Pembroke Pines, FL | Everglades Family Dental At Everglades Family Dental we want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, beautiful smiles, and make you feel comfortable. Everglades Family Dental - Dr. Thomas Crowgey, 16024 Pines Blvd, Suite 106, Pembroke Pines, FL 33027 • (754) 764-0465 • evergladesfamilydental.com • 12/2/2024 • Associated Words: dentist Pembroke Pines •