Pregnant?

Tips for keeping your smile healthy

If you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, now is the time to pay extra attention to your teeth and gums. You may have heard these two common myths about pregnancy: "You lose a tooth for every pregnancy you have" and "If you don't get enough calcium during your pregnancy, your body takes it from your teeth."

Both are false. The calcium your baby needs is provided by your diet, not your teeth. If dietary calcium is lacking, however, your body provides the mineral from your bones.

Tooth loss often is the result of tooth decay or periodontal (gum) disease--not pregnancy. Tooth decay results from repeated acid attacks on tooth enamel. It begins with plaque, a film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. The bacteria transform sugars and starch found in most foods and beverages into harmful acids.

Plaque can irritate gums, making them red, tender and likely to bleed. This condition, called gingivitis, can lead to more serious gum diseases. Women with previously healthy smiles may notice that their gums become swollen or inflamed or bleed during pregnancy. This condition, sometimes called "pregnancy gingivitis," results from changing hormone levels. It is plaque, however, not hormone levels, that is the major cause of gum disease.

PROTECTING YOUR SMILE
Good oral care is important for mother and baby. That's because some research suggests that serious gum disease, called periodontitis, is linked to premature birth and low birth weight.

Prevent tooth decay and gingivitis by keeping your teeth clean, especially around the gumline. More frequent cleanings during your second or early third trimester may be recommended to help control gingivitis.

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste that displays the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance. Floss, or use another type of interdental cleaner, once a day to remove debris from between the teeth. If you need help controlling plaque, your dentist may recommend an antimicrobial mouthrinse.

DENTAL VISITS
Continue regular dental visits throughout your pregnancy. Nonemergency treatment generally can be performed safely during this time. However, you may be advised to avoid elective treatment during the first three months of the pregnancy. If you have a history of miscarriage, an elevated risk of miscarriage or some other medical condition, your dentist may recommend postponing treatment.

Some drugs and anesthetics can be used during and after dental treatment to make you more comfortable. Inform your dentist of any prescription or over-the-counter drug you are taking. Your physician may be consulted to determine the drugs--such as painkillers or antibiotics--you may take safely during the pregnancy and dental treatment.

A radiograph (X-ray) may be needed for dental treatment or a dental emergency that can't wait until after the baby is born. Radiation from dental radiographs is extremely low. A leaded apron minimizes the abdomen's exposure to X-rays.

Advise your dentist if you are pregnant or suspect that you might be, or if there is any change in your health, any change in the medications you take or any particular advice your physician provided. This will help the dentist determine the best time for treatment and whether to modify your treatment plan to better suit your needs and the baby's health.