We start this post with a little humor to tell you that, once again, our body emits “signals” that refer us to other health issues.
We discussed it in a post we shared about how the body is connected and a gum could report inflammation on another side of the body… In case you feel like it, here’s the link.
Well, today we talk about how gums become very likely signs of pregnancy.
Swollen gums are the main dental health problem of pregnant women
Who is to blame, if we have regular check-ups and hygiene?
The answer is clear: hormones.
Hormonal and vascular changes end up triggering inflammation of the gums. This inflammation occurs from the beginning of pregnancy and can be prolonged until breastfeeding.
The “Pregnancy Granuloma” or “Pregnancy tumor”.
Despite the fact that it has a name that can be frightening, it should be noted that the Granuloma of pregnancy is a small tumor, about the size of a lentil.
And, above all, that it is benign. It grows on the gum and usually disappears spontaneously after childbirth. There is no need to be alarmed if it is detected. You just need to go to the dentist to ensure that everything is within normality.
Do vomiting affect tooth erosion or can they cause caries?
Although it is one of the beliefs that are associated with dental problems during pregnancy, it is not scientifically proven that vomiting or the change in salivation end up causing caries.
While vomiting can have a slight impact on enamel, it is relatively rare that we encounter such cases. And, unfortunately, we see much more of these enamel loss effects in cases of bulimia.
How to act in case of dental problems during pregnancy?
First of all, before having a problem, knowing that we are pregnant, we recommend making a visit with the dentist. This way we can control and give the most appropriate guidelines to each patient.
In this first visit, we will emphasize that if it is necessary to do any dental treatment, it would be carried out during the second trimester, which is the golden trimester, the safest to carry out any dental intervention.
We will also give the usual guidelines and recommendations that we will share in the next point and, in addition, we will emphasize that it is not recommended to do a tooth whitening treatment.
Dental health tips during pregnancy
Here is a list of recommendations to take care of your dental health during pregnancy:
- A hygiene and check-up as soon as you find out about pregnancy
- Good dental hygiene 3 times a day, incorporating flossing in each scraping, as well as interproximal brushes
- Brushing the tongue to prevent the accumulation of bacteria
- Use of small brushes to reduce nausea during pregnancy
- Fluoride toothpastes to offer maximum protection against caries
- Good diet avoiding sugars and carbonated drinks
- If you have vomiting, drink water and baking soda after vomiting, as it counteracts acidity and protects the enamel.
- Avoid coffee especially if you are nauseous
- Wait 3 hours minimum between dinner and bedtime