Women have many health concerns to deal with during pregnancy, but few think to put dental hygiene on their list of health priorities. It is an important facet of pregnancy health, however, and should be treated with as much importance as any other prenatal health concern.
Dental Health During Pregnancy
The many hormonal changes taking place during pregnancy can lead to sore, swollen or bleeding gums. Pregnant women are also at a risk of developing gingivitis that can lead to gum disease. Due to these facts, proper oral health should be practiced. Even before planning to conceive, women would be wise to book an appointment with their dentist for a proper cleaning and check-up.
Gum disease (or periodontal disease) can be especially risky for pregnant women and their babies. According to a WebMD article entitled Dental Care and Pregnancy, the changes to a pregnant woman's hormones can increase the risk of gum disease, leading to possible health issues for the baby. The bacteria in the mouth caused by gum disease and gingivitis can get into the bloodstream, potentially causing heart disease or strokes; more so for those with weakened immune systems.
Preventative Measures for Prenatal Oral Health
While pregnant, extra care should be taken to keep teeth clean. Brush teeth consistently and attend regular visits to the dentist. Pregnant women should also, like everyone else, continue flossing and using mild mouthwash on a regular basis.
As for snacking, it can be difficult for a pregnant women to focus on eating purely low sugar snacks, especially in the beginning of pregnancy when they may be having a hard time keeping anything down at all. It is important to make the effort to eat properly, however, and will make dental care that much easier during pregnancy. Opt for low sugar snacks, such as crackers, vegetables and yoghurts, to help stave off the hunger and prevent the need to grab something sugary in the rush to find anything at all.
On-the-Go Dental Health for Pregnancy
Plan ahead and pack healthy, low sugar snacks to carry in a purse for those sudden bursts of hunger or instant cravings. Breakfast bars and diced fruits or vegetables make great carry-along snacks that won't have too many negative effects on oral health.
Brushing teeth can be a challenge while at work or on the go all day. A travel toothbrush and some toothpaste can be carried in a purse for the times when sugary snacks can't be avoided. Try to make a habit of brushing teeth after lunch or sweet snacks. When there is no time to brush teeth, dentist-recommended gum or products created for quick, on the spot dental cleaning can be purchased.
Although it can seem like a minor issue when compared to all the other health concerns associated with pregnancy, dental health is very important and needs to be taken seriously while pregnant. Keep these tips in mind and prenatal dental health shouldn't be a difficult practice to maintain.
Sources:
Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Oral Health: Fact Sheet “Dental Health During Pregnancy"
http://www.idph.state.il.us/HealthWellness/oralhlth/oraldentalpreg.htm
Mayo Clinic. “Dental Health During Pregnancy” Mary Murry, R.N., C.N.M.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dental-health-during-pregnancy/MY00719
