Oral health: The most ignored health factor during pregnancy

To be attributed to Dr Dheeraj Setia, Founder, The Dental Roots

The state of pregnancy is unique and special in more ways than one. As it is known that oral cavity is the mirror of the body’s health, it is commonly neglected during pregnancy owing to associated myths and lack of awareness. The hormonal changes your body is going through during pregnancy make you more susceptible to gum disease, gestational diabetes, which, in turn, can affect the health of your developing baby. It is imperative to maintain oral health during pregnancy as periodontitis commonly known as Pyorrhoea is associated with low birth weight babies, pre-term babies, etc.

During Pregnancy among the numerous health issues, the most common dental health issues like Gingivitis/ Periodontitis, Caries and Erosion.

Pregnancy Gingivitis is a dental condition arises due to hormonal changes during pregnancy in which a woman might have tender, red puffy or swollen gums which can bleed in severe cases. I would suggest to avoid sugary foods and drinks, brush teeth twice a day, and floss once a day to maintain good oral health. Morning sickness is another common issue a pregnant woman have to go through and if that's preventing you from brushing your teeth then try rinsing with mouthwash first; then use a bland toothpaste or brush with just a wet toothbrush. Women with severe morning sickness can prevent damage to their teeth from the stomach acids by using an antacid or by rinsing with a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water after vomiting. But If you wish to try any of these methods, I would like to suggest you to consult your Obstetrician/Gynecologist ( OB/GYN) first.

As I have mentioned earlier that Periodontal Disease can lead to low birth weight babies or pre-term babies because the periodontal disease has the direct and serious impact on the growth of the child in mother's womb. The caries causing bacteria in oral cavity of the mother can be transferred to the infant, hence necessitating oral health maintenance during and after pregnancy.

Adding to this I would like to highlight a myth or a false notion under which many women believe that they may skip their dental appointments during pregnancy. But there is no contradiction for preventive and restorative work. For patients with uncomplicated pregnancies, almost all the emergency dental treatment can be undertaken with the consent consulting OB/GYN. Elective and cosmetic procedures should be delayed until parturition. The second trimester is the safest period. Also, Dental x-rays when taken with shields like the lead apron and thyroid collar are safe and do not cause any harmful effects. The local anaesthetic administered during treatment is also safe to be used during pregnancy. Early checkups with cleaning and fillings is the way to go during pregnancy.

Pregnancy is the most beautiful stage in the life of a woman as its lead to the birth of a new life. Simultaneously it is the most exacting phase where they are expected to take care of every aspect of their health, whether it is physical, mental or dental. In this regard, dental health is a essential aspect since the way to good health passes through the mouth.