Maintain Your Oral Health While Pregnant

There are many health considerations women should be aware of when they are pregnant. Maintaining good oral health is one of them. It’s an important part of your prenatal care.

At the office of Effingham Dental Associates, our experienced dentists are well equipped to provide you with the highest level of care to preserve and maintain your oral health. We utilize state-of-the-art knowledge and technology to plan and perform your care with the utmost precision.

Being pregnant can increase your risk for oral health problems, and these problems can affect your pregnancy. Here are some changes that can increase your risk for certain dental problems during pregnancy:

More cavities. You can pass the bacteria that causes cavities to your baby during pregnancy and after birth. This can cause problems for your baby’s teeth later in life.

Gingivitis. Sixty to 75 percent of pregnant women have gingivitis. Signs and symptoms include gums that are red, swollen, tender, bleeding or shiny.

Loose teeth. High levels of the hormones progesterone and estrogen can temporarily loosen the tissues and bones that keep your teeth in place.

Periodontal disease. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, which causes serious infection in the gums and problems with the bones that support the teeth. Periodontitis can lead to bacteria in the bloodstream, which needs immediate attention.

Pregnancy tumors. These tumors are not cancer. They’re lumps that form on the gums, usually between teeth. These tumors usually go away on their own after giving birth.

Taking good care of your mouth, teeth and gums during pregnancy can help you have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. At the office of Effingham Dental Associates, we offer a clear picture of all the options available to you and deliver the results you expect. For more information on all of our services, please call today!