Before, during and after pregnancy, your body undergoes hormonal changes that could affect not just your body but that or your child as well. Poor oral health increases the risk of developing gum diseases, which can affect the health and development of your baby.

It’s important for you to take good care of your teeth and gums while pregnant.

Here are advices to help you keep good oral health before, during and after pregnancy.

BEFORE EVERYTHING ELSE

Plan a dental visit before getting pregnant. That way, your dentist can advise you how to take care of your oral health in preparation for pregnancy and afterwards. All oral health problems can be treated in advance.

WHILE YOU’RE PREGNANT

• Advise your dentist if you are pregnant. Routine dental care can be done any time during pregnancy. However, before your dental appointment, check with your obstetrician to see if he / she has any special precautions / instructions for you.
• Yes! Dental X-rays can be done during pregnancy. This is one of the main concerns of pregnant women. Your dentist will take the necessary precautions for the diagnostic procedure.
• Tell your dentist that you’re taking medication. Your dentist may need to modify your dental treatment plan based on this information.
• Don’t skip your dental checkup appointment just because you are pregnant. Now more than any other time, regular periodontal (gum) exams are very important, because pregnancy causes hormonal changes that put you at increased risk for gum diseases such as:
  Pregnancy gingivitis – This is caused by hormonal changes that increase the blood flow to the gum tissue and cause your gums to be more sensitive, irritable, and swollen. These hormonal changes also hinder the body’s normal response to bacteria which can cause periodontal infections making easier for plaque to build up on your teeth and susceptible to gingivitis.
  Pregnancy epulis – Some pregnant women will develop a localized swelling on the gum, known as a pregnancy epulis, occurs in the second or third trimester month of the pregnancy. A pregnancy epulis is a benign tumor in the gums that is not have malignant (cancerous).
• Maintain good oral hygiene practices to prevent oral health problems.

AFTER PREGNANCY
Whether or not you experienced oral problems during your pregnancy be sure to visit your dentist, Dr. Rabih Abi Nader, after delivery to have oral examination and periodontal health evaluation.