Expecting? Don’t Ignore Your Oral Health

Did you know that up to 75% of pregnant women could experience signs of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease?

Research shows that during pregnancy the body produces increased levels of hormones that, while helping the fetus develop, may increase the mom-to-be’s risk for gum inflammation.

With improved home oral care and deep cleaning by your dental specialist, gingivitis can normally be reversed. Left untreated, gingivitis can develop into a more harmful stage of gum disease that is treatable, but not reversible. It’s even been linked to negative pregnancy outcomes like pre-term birth and low birth weight.

Our Practice Weighs In

Dr. Eric Schoenebeck recently wrote about the topic and offers tips to pregnant women that include:

• Rinsing your mouth with warm water when waking up if experiencing morning sickness—but brushing later in the day.
• Waiting to brush for at least an hour after being sick to help prevent harmful stomach acids from damaging tooth enamel.

Like Dr. Schoenebeck says, “Our job isn’t to scare you – it’s to encourage you to try to make sure you take care of your teeth and gums at all times, which certainly includes when you’re bringing a precious new life into the world.”

Read the full article here. And, if you’re pregnant or have someone expecting in your family – best wishes to you and yours!