Oral health in pregnancy

During pregnancy all attention is turned to the baby. As a result, it is common for the pregnant woman to neglect her oral health, which can have serious implications for the baby's health.

• Have a dental appointment before becoming pregnant to assess your oral health and undergo any dental treatment needed to avoid oral infections during this period, as well as to be informed about the care to take with oral hygiene, diet and the future habits of the newborn;
• Dental treatment during pregnancy is possible, the 2nd trimester being the most suitable period. Cleanings can be carried out throughout the pregnancy without any problem. Other treatments will have to be assessed according to the degree of risk of the pregnancy, but in an uncomplicated pregnancy it will be possible to carry out practically all dental procedures.
• Pregnancy does not cause an increase in the incidence of tooth decay. However, factors such as a diet richer in sugars, increased oral acidity (due to vomiting) and neglect of oral hygiene increase the risk of cavities;
• Vomiting, common in the first trimester, leaves the mouth more acidic and can damage tooth enamel. Therefore, after feeling unwell, rinsing with water or mouthwash is advised;
• During pregnancy the teeth do not weaken through loss of calcium to the baby, so the idea that the baby “steals calcium” from the teeth is wrong;
• Due to hormonal changes, gum conditions change and gingivitis is very frequent. It is therefore important to reinforce oral hygiene care, with scaling as a rule more frequent during pregnancy;
• The progression of some gum problems can contribute to premature birth and low birth weight.
• • Taking fluoride supplements is not indicated during the prenatal period, since current knowledge about the mechanism of action of fluoride indicates that its effect is predominantly topical.

The Biuti Alvalade Medical and Dental Clinic is at your disposal to provide you with a dental service for pregnant women of the highest quality.