MEDICAL INSIDER
DR. RHODA ENTERO
Dental Care During Pregnancy
Part 2
What are the Dental Problems that are common during
Pregnancy?
Pregnancy can bring so many changes – including changes
in oral health. Here are some of the common conditions
faced by expecting mothers.
The mother’s body responds to bacteria caused by
pregnancy gingivitis, resulting to excessive production of
prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are hormones that induce
labor.
Excessive amounts of the hormone may cause premature
labor. A baby that is born before term is more prone to health
conditions including cerebral palsy and problems with
eyesight and hearing.
In fact, eighteen out of every 100 premature births may
actually be triggered by periodontal disease. Poor oral health
habits are also associated with intrauterine growth restriction,
gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia.
Pregnancy increases the risk of tooth decay. Expecting
moms may be more prone to cavities because of their more
than usual intake of carbohydrates. Morning sickness can
also increase the amount of acid their mouth is exposed to,
which can destroy their enamel.
Pregnancy granuloma or pregnancy tumors often appear on
the gums during the second trimester of pregnancy. This is a
swelling between teeth, which is due to excessive plaque.
These pregnancy tumors bleed easily. Luckily, there are
ways to remove pregnancy tumors. Just seek advice from
your dentist.
During pregnancy, the ligaments and bones that support
teeth loosen, often causing tooth mobility or loose teeth.
Some women even find themselves losing a tooth or two just
by biting into common foods!
Too much gastric acid, especially when vomiting, increases
the acid inside one’s mouth. These acids erode the tooth
enamel. A good remedy for this is to rinse the mouth using a
mixture of baking soda and water.
Eating foods with too much sugar – common among
pregnant women because of their cravings – and increased
acidity in the mouth can also cause dental caries.
The most common signs of dental problems that a pregnant
woman may experience are sore gums, bad breath, loose
teeth, mouth sores, and toothache. These signs will help
expectant moms prevent dental diseases. (To be continued)