The latest survey from the Australian Dental Association reveals that 53 per cent of pregnant women across the country risk their oral health by skipping their dental appointments during pregnancy.
The Australian Women Dental Health Survey results have disappointed the experts who warn and emphasise that it’s crucial for expectant mothers to consult their dentist because hormonal changes can make the gums more susceptible to bleeding, swelling, and inflammation.
These gum issues can lead to an increased risk of periodontal disease, causing tooth loss.
Your oral health and overall well-being have a significant connection.
Therefore, it is extremely important to take care of your teeth and gums during pregnancy, as it is also important to the health of your baby growing inside you.
Being aware of how pregnancy affects oral health helps prevent dental issues that could harm you and your baby.
Possible Dental Problems During Pregnancy
Pregnancy puts you at higher risk for dental problems.
Hormone changes cause an increase in blood flow, bringing more blood to the gums. This feeds any dental plaque, promoting tooth decay and gum disease.
Here are some of the dental problems you could expect during pregnancy:
Pregnancy gingivitis
This is a common problem for pregnant women. Gingivitis is the mild stage of gum disease causing red and swollen gums, and the patient may experience tenderness and bleeding. Improving oral hygiene reduces your chances of suffering from this problem.
Pregnancy tumours
These result from irritation brought about by gingivitis and plaque. Pregnancy tumours are harmless growths that develop on the gums and often subside after giving birth.
To avoid pain and other concerns, it’s best to see your dentist as soon as possible.
Periodontitis
Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, the more serious stage of gum disease. This infection destroys the gums and poses a threat to pregnant women.
The infection can enter the bloodstream. If this happens, your body produces a natural chemical to control it, possibly causing early labour.
Studies show gum disease is linked to low birth weight and premature birth. Moreover, dental infections are also related to miscarriages.
How to Avoid These Problems During Pregnancy
Maintaining good oral hygiene habits even before pregnancy makes you less likely to suffer from these related health issues.
Brush your teeth at least twice daily, floss between your teeth and visit your dentist regularly. In addition, if you are planning on parenthood or are already pregnant, see your dentist.
Increase your calcium intake during pregnancy. Consuming foods rich in calcium will protect your bone mass and meet the required nutrition of your developing baby.
Increasing your daily amount of calcium during pregnancy is important. Good sources of dietary calcium include milk, cheese, yoghurt and calcium-fortified soymilk.
Increase your vitamin D intake to help your body utilise calcium. Good sources of this vitamin include cheese, margarine, fatty fish (such as salmon) and eggs. Going outside to expose your skin to healthy sunlight is also a good way to increase your vitamin D during pregnancy.
Your Pregnancy and Oral Health Matters at Dr Sachdeva’s Dental Surgery
Expecting a baby is one of the most exciting moments in your life.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle and impeccable oral hygiene habits during pregnancy with the help of your Wantirna South dentist at Dr Sachdeva’s Dental Surgery. Don’t let dental problems stand in your way.
We will thoroughly examine your condition before recommending and performing any required dental procedures. Our team will help you achieve a happy and healthy pregnancy by maintaining your dental health.
We are located in Stud Road, Wantirna South, proudly serving the local community with a personal priority to deliver quality oral health in a professional, comfortable, convenient clinic setting.
Wantirna South dentist also serves local communities in Knox City, Boronia, Bayswater, Scoresby, Rowville, Ferntree Gully, Vermont, Vermont South, Burwood, Burwood East, Ringwood, Ringwood East, and Wantirna.
Contact us at (03) 9800 2338 or book your appointment online.
