The Dental Blog

Pregnancy and Oral Health

What does being pregnant have to do with going to the dentist? According to medical researchers, apparently everything! In fact a woman who is considering becoming pregnant ought to go to the dentist first. Gums that are infected, bleeding, red, or swollen are an infection that can affect other areas of the body including the unborn baby. In addition, the next opportunity to take x-rays might be over a year away! Cavities can grow undetected and lead to abscess and tooth aches. That is the last thing a pregnant woman wants. While dental xrays should generally be avoided during pregnancy, regular dental cleanings to insure gum health are essential.

Premature Birth and Low Birth Weight

Almost 500,000 babies in the United States are born prematurely.

Did you know that pregnant women with chronic periodontal (gum) disease during the second trimester are up to seven times more likely to give birth prematurely?

Gum Infection and Preeclampsia

Gum infection plays a possible role in the development of preeclampsia, a serious condition affecting approximately 5% of U.S. pregnancies. In fact preeclampsia is considered one of the main causes of miscarriages and pre-mature births. Gums that are red, puffy and bleed are not normal in pregnancy. They are infected and need treatment. Your dentist should recommend additional cleanings to help you avoid problems. Even insurance companies, not known for their generous benefits, encourage women to have an extra cleaning during pregnancy to avoid the high costs of complications during pregnancy.

Oral Health Before, During and After Pregnancy is Important

Receiving professional dental care during pregnancy is important. Yet, the American Dental Association (ADA) says that most pregnant women will not visit their dentist – even if they are having dental problems. Dental treatment is usually safe for pregnant women. Of course, if you are pregnant, may be pregnant, or are attempting to become pregnant, inform your dentist. Your dentist will know the appropriate precautions.

At Dental Care of Stamford we encourage women to make dental health a part of their over all lifestyle and especially during child bearing years. Remember, it’s not just a cleaning!