Pregnant? Don’t Skip Your Dental Visits

Pregnancy is a special and exciting time in a woman’s life. It is also a time that is full of changes and emerging responsibilities. As a mother-to-be, you’ve got the important job of taking care of yourself so that you can have an uncomplicated pregnancy and healthy baby. This includes taking care of your mouth!

Did you know that your oral health not only changes during pregnancy, but it can also affect your unborn baby? Therefore, while we know your calendar is full of preparations for your family’s new addition, it is also very important to keep your routine dental appointment during pregnancy.

Pregnancy Gingivitis

It is no surprise that surging hormones trigger some changes in a woman’s body during pregnancy. These extra hormones can also influence your dental health. In particular, the gums can often respond differently to plaque during pregnancy. This is why many pregnant women battle “pregnancy gingivitis.”

Pregnancy gingivitis can begin as early as the second month. It is marked by gums that are red, swollen and bleed easily. Gingivitis is a warning sign that the gums are irritated with plaque and bacteria and an infection is brewing beneath the gum line. Left untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss and problems within your overall health. For a pregnant woman, however, untreated gum disease can pose a serious risk for her unborn child. Research shows a strong link between pre-term and low-birth weight babies and mothers who have gum disease.

Avoiding Gum Disease and Protecting Your Baby

While elective dental procedures may be postponed until after delivery, routine dental care is not only safe during pregnancy, it is highly encouraged – especially for expectant moms who suffer from morning sickness and have difficulty brushing their teeth without gagging.  

At Lawrenceville Family Dental, we welcome the opportunity to care for your smile through all seasons of life. We are keenly aware of the dental care guidelines for pregnant women, and we do our very best to make your visits as comfortable as possible. A professional dental cleaning during pregnancy can remove plaque before it causes gum disease. If you already suffer from pregnancy gingivitis, we can offer the necessary cleaning and treatment it takes to reverse your condition before it causes harm.

Posted on Behalf of Lawrenceville Family Dental Care