Many people believe that pregnancy will necessarily have a negative impact on their teeth. Some people have wage notions about calcium deficiencies, while other deny the existence of problem at all, and regard dental problems during pregnancy as a myth. While it is a fact that the oral biome is subject to change during pregnancy, this is due more to hormonal changes than anything else.

Periodontitis

Hormonal fluctuations are more common in women than in men. One of the times that hormones fluctuate rapidly is during pregnancy. The gums are much more susceptible to infection, because of the heightened levels of oestrogen and progesterone present in the body during pregnancy. This does not mean that pregnancy will necessarily bring swelling or bleeding gums with it, as rigorous oral hygiene can easily prevent unwanted symptoms from forming.

Consequences of periodontitis

You need to treat periodontitis as soon as it starts, because if unchecked, it can lead to bleeding and to atrocious halitosis. Studies have proven that mothers who have unhealthy gums during pregnancy are more likely to suffer from some form of sepsis after delivery and of general infections during pregnancy, and were much more likely to deliver early. Untreated infections were much more likely to lead to benign growths and tumours, too. These growths usually disappear postpartum, but do need to be removed sometimes, because they can inhibit the mother’s ability to eat, clean her teeth or speak.
 

Dental treatments during pregnancy

It is important to talk to your dentist before you get pregnant, and treat any and all dental problems that you may have at that time. If all problems are fixed and a deep cleaning hygiene session has been had, tis i enough to go to your dentist every three months while expecting, for nothing more than a check-up and a hygiene session. If you need some serious dental work, it is better to get that done after you deliver your baby, as neither x-rays, nor anaesthetic are particularly good for your baby. If the mother is in pain, it is well possible and even recommended to have dental procedures done.
 

Tooth replacement during pregnancy

While pregnant, it is important to seek out oral hygiene products that are not very dangerous, and do not have a lot of harmful ingredients. You will need to brush your teeth twice a day, just as before, and for two minutes each time. It is highly recommended to use an interdental toothbrush and floss as well. The most important thing is to remove any and all food detritus and plaque from the mouth, as the body has a weakened immune system and may not be able to fight off bacteria as it has previously, and the chance of infections and tooth decay are somewhat higher.
It is extremely important to choose the right kind of toothbrush, as toothbrushes with rough bristles can hurt the gums.