Do you how progesterone and periodontal disease are related?
Progesterone is the hormone produced excessively during pregnancy to aid women while conceiving. This hormone also causes a surge of blood to the gums that might result in frequent bleeding during this period. Bacteria can easily grow and affect the teeth due to poor gum health. Thus it is very important to visit the dentist if you face such tenderness or swollen gums during the initial stage of your pregnancy. Gingivitis problems can arise from the second to eighth month of pregnancy.
For women who suffer from nausea and vomiting, also called ‘morning sickness’ also need be careful. The acids from the stomach can also affect the teeth and thus it is advisable to visit the Dentist during pregnancy.
In addition to these, it is always better to get the teeth checked and treated if there are issues before the baby is born. Dental Care and treatments are completely safe during your pregnancy and your dentist can help you with the perfect dental care advice depending on your conditions.
The baby begins to develop teeth between 3 to 6 months of the pregnancy. So it is important to supplement your diet with food rich in calcium, vitamin D, C and A, phosphorous, and protein. Also, inform your dentist of the medications that your GP has prescribed. Certain drugs — for example, such as the antibiotic tetracycline — can affect the development of your child’s teeth and should not be given during the pregnancy. Your dentist will ensure all these drugs are correctly administered and will prescribe the best practices for good dental health – for you and the baby.
Avoid dental x-rays until its absolutely necessary or if it is an emergency. Although dental procedures are absolutely safe during pregnancy, it is advisable to avoid substantial dental procedure until the first trimester.
Follow the usual instructions to maintain oral health – brush twice a day, avoid excessive sugar in food, floss and rinse your mouth etc. Dental care during pregnancy is very easy as long as you have the proper guidance of professional dentist.
