If you are expecting, you know that it seems that everywhere you turn, there is some new concern that you have to consider. For some, the idea of keeping their oral health in check during this time may fall behind on their list of priorities. Do not let this be you, however, as it can have lasting ramifications to your health!
Pregnant smiles are much more likely to experience periodontal disease, or the infection of your gum tissue. This inflammation and bacterial infection can be highly damaging to your oral health. Both your cosmetic appearance and the medical structures of your mouth can suffer without some simple maintenance adjustments. Today, your Houston, TX dentist explains how this disease can put you at risk during your pregnancy, and the best ways to monitor and void and potential damage!
Hormonal Shifts
Your body changes in an incredible way while you are developing a new life within you. Our pelvic bones even become looser to accommodate a natural birth. While that level of transformation is beautiful, it can also pose problems to our health in a few different ways.
Our mouths are one particular area that you need to be monitoring. Pregnant mouths are much more likely to develop periodontal disease, or the infection and inflammation of the gums. This can be dangerous for your smile, and lead to tooth decay and even loss!
How It Affects You
When your gum tissue has become infected, it begins to pull back from your teeth. This creates a pocket between the two that serves as a perfect home for bacterial colonies. As we know with cavities, these bacteria create highly acidic waste that is strong enough to eat through enamel.
When this infection reaches the inside of your tooth structure, you may require surgery to remove it and any damaged tissue. This can include a root canal,where the fleshy interior pulp is removed and the connections to your jaw are closed. A putty material known at gutta-percha seals these locations, from a plant derivation.
Your Next Steps
When you are expecting, you need to keep an open line of communication with your dentist. This is one of the best things you can do for your health in general! But particularly now, it can make all the difference in maintaining the quality of your smile.
Your hormones begin to change nearly immediately after conception, and the risk to your mouth continues through to birth. Speak with a trained oral health professional about the timeline in your appointment for a checkup and cleaning. Most often, a visit will need to be set somewhere in the second or third trimester.
We’re Here For You
Proper maintenance and examinations can help you to maintain your smile through the stresses of a pregnancy. If you would like to find out more about how we can help you, please contact your Houston, TX, dentist, Dr. Vlachakis, by calling 281-974-4494.
