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Is
there a connection between my diet pregnancy
and my oral health?
Eating a balanced diet is necessary
to provide the correct amounts
of nutrients to nourish
both you and your child. What you eat
during the nine months of pregnancy
affects the
development of your unborn child -- including
teeth. Your baby’s teeth begin to develop
between the third and sixth month of pregnancy,
so it is important that you receive sufficient
amounts of nutrients – especially
calcium, protein, phosphorous, and vitamins
A, C,
and D.
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Does a woman lose calcium from her teeth
during pregnancy?
It is a myth that calcium is lost
from the mother’s teeth during pregnancy.
The calcium your baby needs is provided
by your diet, not by your teeth. If dietary
calcium is inadequate, however, your
body will provide this mineral from stores
in your bones. An adequate intake of
dairy products – the primary source
of calcium – or the supplements
your obstetrician may recommend will
help ensure that you get all the calcium
you need during your pregnancy.
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What
if I’m hungry between meals?
During pregnancy, many women have the
desire to eat between meals. While
this is a normal urge, frequent snacking
on carbohydrate-containing foods
can be an invitation to tooth decay.
The decay process begins with plaque,
an invisible, sticky layer of harmful
bacteria that constantly forms on
teeth. The bacteria convert sugar
and starch that remain in the mouth
to acid that attacks tooth enamel.
The longer sugars are retained in
your mouth, the longer the acids
attack. After repeated attacks, tooth
decay can result. Eat nutritious, well-balanced meals made
up of foods from the five major food
groups: breads, cereals and other grains;
fruits; vegetables; meat, fish, poultry
and protein alternates; and milk, yogurt
and cheese. Try to resist the urge to
snack constantly. When you need a snack,
choose foods that are nutritious for
you and your baby such as raw fruits
and vegetables and dairy products. Following
your physician’s advice regarding
diet is your wisest course.
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What if I'm pregnant and need a dental radiograph examination?
A radiograph may be needed for dental treatment or a dental emergency that can’t wait until after the baby is born. Untreated dental infections can pose a risk to the fetus, and dental treatment may be necessary to maintain the health of the mother and child. Radiation from dental X-rays is extremely low. However, every precaution is taken to minimize radiation exposure. A leaded apron minimizes exposure to the abdomen and should be used when any dental radiograph is taken. A leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from radiation, and should be used whenever possible. The use of a leaded thyroid collar is strongly recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children. Dental radiographs are not contraindicated if one is trying to become pregnant or is breast feeding.
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Does pregnancy affect my gums?
During pregnancy, your body’s
hormone levels rise considerably.
Gingivitis, especially common
during the second to eighth months
of pregnancy,
may cause red, puffy or tender
gums that tend to bleed when
you brush.
This sensitivity is an exaggerated
response to plaque and is caused
by an increased level of progesterone
in your system. Your dentist
may recommend more frequent cleanings
during your second trimester
or early
third trimester to help you avoid
problems.
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What
are “pregnancy tumors”?
Occasionally overgrowths
of gum tissue, called “pregnancy tumors,” appear
on the gums during the second trimester.
These localized growths or swellings
are usually found between the teeth
and are believed to be related to
excess plaque. They bleed easily
and are characterized by a red, raw-looking
mulberry-like surface. They are often
surgically removed after the baby
is born. If you experience pregnancy
tumors, see your dentist. It’s especially important, then,
to maintain good oral health during pregnancy.
Studies indicate that pregnant women
who have severe periodontal (gum) disease may be at
increased risk for pre-term delivery,
which in turn increases the risk of having
a low-birthweight baby. If you notice
any changes in your mouth during pregnancy,
see your dentist.
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What can I do to
keep my mouth healthy during pregnancy?
To help prevent tooth decay and periodontal
disease, brush your teeth thoroughly
twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
to remove plaque. Be sure to clean between
your teeth daily with floss or interdental
cleaners. Ask your dentist or hygienist
to show you how to brush and floss correctly.
When choosing oral care products, look
for those that display the American Dental
Association’s Seal of Acceptance,
your assurance that they have met ADA
standards of safety and effectiveness. Return
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Please note: The ADA does not provide specific answers
to individual questions about fees, dental problems, conditions, diagnoses,
treatments or proposed treatments, or requests for research. Information about
dental referrals, complaints and a variety of dental procedures may
be found here. You can also refer to our Frequently
Asked Questions page for answers to common questions.
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