Attention Expectant Mothers: Dental Care and Pregnancy

During a woman’s lifetime, her body will go through many changes, from puberty to menopause. However, nothing will change her body as quickly or dramatically as pregnancy. During pregnancy, hormonal changes will affect nearly every aspect of her health, including the health of her mouth. At the cosmetic and general dentistry practice of Dr. N. Perry Orchard, we are proud to offer comprehensive dental care designed to meet the special needs of expectant mothers, along with the education they need to maintain excellent oral health between visits to our practice at a time when their bodies are going through so many changes.

Dr. Orchard guides his practice with the philosophy that “good enough” is never good enough. If you are currently pregnant or are considering expanding your family, you deserve only the best when it comes to preserving the health of your precious smile. Our team will make sure that you are provided with only the most exceptional dental care and treatment during your pregnancy, from your initial consultation at our Corpus Christi office onward.

How does pregnancy affect a woman’s oral health?

When a woman becomes pregnant, she immediately experiences hormonal changes that affect her entire body, including her mouth. This is not to suggest that women are doomed to have poor oral health when they become pregnant; however, they are more vulnerable to certain oral health issues, including gum disease. Many women, especially those that do not visit the dentist routinely, do not realize that pregnancy will affect their mouths as drastically as it does. As a result, they simply are not prepared to meet the changes that occur in their mouths head on, preventing potential problems before they have a chance to develop.

Among the most common dental problems experienced by pregnant women are:

  • Gum disease: This is the number-one oral health issue faced by pregnant women. During pregnancy, the gums become more susceptible to inflammation and infection. If left untreated, the early stages of gum disease can quickly develop into periodontitis, which is associated with tooth loss, gum recession, and jaw bone deterioration.
  • Tooth enamel erosion: Women who are prone to vomiting and acid reflux may experience the erosion of the protective enamel layer of their teeth. As the enamel erodes, the teeth become more vulnerable to decay and other damage.
  • Granulomas: Granulomas are benign growths that form on the gums, causing irritation and discomfort. They commonly develop during pregnancy and disappear once the baby is born. Although they are generally harmless, they can be removed if they are painful or if they interfere with routine oral functions.
  • Dry mouth: Hormonal changes can also lead to dryness of the mouth, which, in turn, can contribute to bad breath and gum disease.

In order to avoid the above oral health problems from occurring during your pregnancy, it is important that you:

  • Eat healthy, avoiding sugary and acidic foods and beverages
  • Brush and floss after each meal
  • Drink lots of water to stay hydrated
  • Visit our practice early in your pregnancy to establish a proactive pregnancy dental treatment plan

Learn More about Dental Care and Pregnancy

To learn more about dental care and pregnancy, please contact our cosmetic and general dentistry practice today.