Pregnancy and Dental problems

Pregnancy causes a lot of changes in your body which can at times affect your oral health. Pregnant women can quickly deplete the mineral reserves in their body and thus are required to maintain a healthy, nutritious diet. As the child begins to develop, women may experience calcium deficiency. This situation is further exacerbated when the hormonal changes in the body delay your immune response, compromising your dental health. The common problems faced during pregnancy include tooth decay & gum disease. Enamel erosion & tooth decay: Morning sickness and vomiting coat your teeth with strong stomach acids, and repetitive retching can wear down the enamel. “Acids can compromise the enamel layer. It’s the same reason why we ask patients to avoid soda, only that stomach acid is much more efficient in breaking things down,” explains a dentist in Diamond Bar CA, adding “the toxins in the acid can also mix with bacterial bodies and their excrement to form a layering (plaque) on our tooth.” The Diamond Bar dentist also advises not to brush immediately after throwing up as it helps spread the acid in the mouth, “You can rinse using water, or a mouthwash. Leave the brushing for a bit later. An hour’s time is alright.” Tooth decay or cavities are resultants of increased bacterial activity. The microorganisms in our mouth thrive on starch and carbohydrates, both abundant in sugary treats. Pregnancy may cause women to experience sweet cravings, and increased intake may cause tooth decay. Watching your diet during pregnancy is vital for you and your baby. Eating calcium and vitamin D enriched foods can help you maintain a balance and meet the nutritional needs of your baby. Gum Disease: Gingivitis is one of the most common pregnancy related dental problem. With increased hormonal levels and slower immune response, bacterial buildup increases significantly. This accelerates the plaque formation and the subsequent mineralization process. The mineralized calculus or tartar then causes irritation and gum swelling, as the immune system begins to react. This process becomes continual (gingivitis) if not treated for, and can also escalate into a more serious periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can damage the tooth’s supporting structure. This can cause the tooth to become loose or even fall off. If you already have gum disease, you should consult your dentist how to manage it during pregnancy. Untreated, periodontal disease can affect child birth. Some studies indicate a relation between per-mature births and the disease itself. “Your dentist should be made aware if you are expecting. Tests such as dental x-rays should be avoided until the child birth,” advises the dentist in Diamond Bar CA. She also stresses on the need for good oral hygiene and a healthy diet.