Paying attention to oral health and following oral hygiene practices are important throughout life, but maintaining oral health becomes especially critical during pregnancy.
“Pregnancy hormones can cause gum tissues to become more sensitive to plaque, leading to inflammation and bleeding. This condition, called pregnancy gingivitis, affects nearly 60-70% of pregnant women.”
American Dental Association (ADA)
Read this article to learn about gum changes and treatments during pregnancy.
Gum Changes During Pregnancy
Pregnancy causes major hormonal changes in the mother’s body, including changes in the oral microbiome and saliva composition.
Hormonal changes reduce the mouth’s natural defenses against bacterial colonization and plaque buildup, potentially leading to gum sensitivity, gingival hyperplasia, and periodontal pocket formation, which may affect the fetus over time.
“Board-certified periodontists report that pregnant women show a 2.1-fold increase in sites with probing depths ≥4 mm compared to non-pregnant controls.”
Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 2019 meta-analysis of 12 studies, n=3,456
Therefore, expectant mothers should prioritize their oral health. Gum disease is among the most common oral health problems during pregnancy and can lead to premature birth or fetal complications. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can lead to:
- Gum inflammation and swelling
- Gingival hyperplasia (pyogenic granuloma in 5% of cases)
- Gum infections
- A sensation of loosened teeth
- Enamel erosion
Signs of Dental Problems during Pregnancy
A pregnant woman may experience a variety of oral health issues, such as gum pain or increased gingival sensitivity due to plaque buildup. Your periodontist may identify such issues during a routine checkup.
It is advisable to visit a periodontist regularly before conceiving to ensure that all necessary periodontal treatments are completed. If more than six months have passed since your last dental visit, try to schedule an appointment early in your pregnancy.
Regular periodontal checkups help detect issues early, preventing complications. Routine periodontal cleanings prior to conception can help minimize the risk of periodontal attachment loss.
If your periodontist diagnoses periodontal issues such as deep pockets during pregnancy and an X-ray is needed, special protective gear will be required to safeguard the fetus. Be sure to inform your periodontist about your pregnancy before undergoing imaging.
Gum Care in Early Pregnancy: First Trimester
During the first three months, avoiding medications and dental treatments is recommended, as the fetus’s primary organs are developing. Additionally, exposure to radiographic radiation (X-rays) should be avoided until the 13th week of pregnancy.
If periodontal treatment is necessary and the infection is not spreading or causing severe pain, it is preferable to postpone procedures until the second trimester with a periodontist’s recommendation.
Mild, short-lived gum pain or sensitivity to probing should be managed conservatively.
Safe Dental Procedures in Second Trimester
The fourth, fifth, and sixth months are the safest time for dental treatments because the fetus is sufficiently developed, and the mother is under less physical strain.
Essential dental procedures such as fillings, root canal treatment, and extractions can be performed during this period. Radiographic exposure should still be minimized, and if necessary, a lead apron should be used for protection.
Although dental treatments can be completed in this trimester, cosmetic procedures should ideally be postponed until after delivery, as prolonged reclining in the dental chair may cause discomfort.
Gum Care in Late Pregnancy: Third Trimester
In the seventh, eighth, and ninth months, the fetus is almost fully developed, and the mother may find movement more challenging. Lying in a dental chair for an extended period may be uncomfortable or harmful.
It is generally recommended to postpone non-urgent treatments until after delivery and to maintain careful oral hygiene to prevent periodontal issues.
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an alcohol-free mouthwash are essential. All dental treatments and medications should be approved by an obstetrician or gynecologist.
How to Relieve Pregnancy Toothache Safely
To minimize discomfort, avoid very hot or cold liquids, excessive pressure, and chewing hard foods. Proper and consistent use of dental floss, a toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste, and mouthwash are essential for pregnant women to maintain optimal gum hygiene and reduce the risk of infection.
When to See a Periodontist during Early Pregnancy
If gum pain is persistent and worsening, or if the gum is infected or abscessed, prompt treatment is necessary.
Managing the mother’s pain and anxiety is a priority, as prolonged discomfort can adversely affect both the mother and the fetus. In these cases, treatment will be performed under the following conditions:
- The use of medication and radiographic imaging should be supervised and approved by a gynecologist.
- Dental treatments during this period focus on alleviating urgent symptoms such as pain and infection. During this stage, to relieve pain and allow drainage of the infection.
In this procedure, only the pulp tissue in the tooth’s crown is removed, and the tooth is temporarily sealed until a complete root canal treatment can be performed in the second trimester.
Are Dental X-rays Safe during Pregnancy?
X-ray exposure is a major dental concern during pregnancy, often causing anxiety among expectant mothers. However, modern dental radiographs use minimal radiation, which is generally insufficient to harm fetal development.
Additionally, dentists use lead aprons to protect sensitive areas, minimizing risk. While X-rays are considered safe during pregnancy, periodontists may recommend avoiding them in the first trimester unless necessary.
Dental Anesthesia Safety during Pregnancy Dental anesthesia is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it is essential to inform your periodontist about your pregnancy beforehand. Periodontists exercise additional caution when administering anesthetics and may use lower doses to ensure safety.
Sources:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/
https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/dental-work-and-pregnancy/
Are there any common dental conditions associated with complex partial seizures?
While complex partial seizures are primarily neurological, there aren’t any direct dental conditions caused by them. However, certain anti-seizure medications can affect oral health — for example, by causing gum overgrowth or dry mouth. If you’re managing seizures during pregnancy, it’s especially important to coordinate care between your dentist, neurologist, and obstetrician.
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