Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy
Fountain Valley, CA
 During pregnancy, your body undergoes numerous changes. After all, your body is working to grow another life. You have a lot to think about during this time. While you have a lot on your mind, it is also important to take care of yourself, including your mouth. While good oral hygiene is important at all times, it is especially important during pregnancy. It is essential that you remember to brush and floss every day, as well as maintain your regular dental exams and cleanings. Bijan Family Dental Practice is here to help.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a condition that begins with a bacterial infection in your mouth. When you have an overabundance of oral bacteria, they can begin to irritate your gum tissue, which then leads to inflammation. Inflamed tissue begins to pull away from your teeth, causing pockets to form. Bacteria fall into these pockets and continue to attack your gums from the inside. They also begin attacking your periodontal ligaments and jawbone. Eventually, your gums recede, and your teeth become loose. You may even suffer tooth loss. Bacteria can also enter into your bloodstream, causing serious health issues, including complications with pregnancy.
How Can Pregnancy Increase My Risk?
Your body goes through a lot during pregnancy. One of the things that occurs is changes in hormones. It is these hormonal changes that can affect the health of your gums. Changes in your hormones change the way that your gums respond to plaque and bacteria, leaving them more susceptible to irritation, swelling, and bleeding. Another issue that may increase your risk for periodontal disease is retching while brushing. If you find it difficult to brush your teeth, you may avoid it, or not brush properly. This can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria, which then leave you more susceptible to oral health issues including periodontal disease.
Effects of Periodontal Disease During Pregnancy
If periodontal disease develops during pregnancy and then goes untreated, it can lead to several significant issues. These issues include
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Increased risk of pre-eclampsia.
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Pre-term birth.
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Low birthweight. This can lead to complications such as low oxygen levels, difficulty staying warm, infections, breathing issues, and problems with the nervous system. |
Maintaining Your Oral Health During Pregnancy
Taking good care of your mouth during pregnancy is not just essential for your oral health, but for the health of your unborn child as well. It is important that you continue to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. You should also continue to have your teeth professionally cleaned and examined every six months. During your dental exams, it is important that you let us know that you are pregnant. If you do notice that your gums look red and swollen, or you notice bleeding when you brush and floss, call the office right away.
During pregnancy, taking good care of yourself is essential. It is also important to take good care of your mouth as well. If you have any questions or concerns about oral care during pregnancy or need to schedule a regular cleaning and exam, call Bijan Family Dental Practice at (714) 421-4494 today.
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