Pregnancy can sometimes feel like an overwhelming rollercoaster of doctor’s appointments and medical concerns. But in the midst of all your other appointments, don’t neglect an essential component of your health: your dental wellness. In fact, when you are pregnant, you are more at risk for certain dental problems, and these issues could even affect your baby. Fortunately, our Denver dentists offer compassionate and comprehensive care for expecting mamas.
At Metropolitan Dental Care, we provide an array of services, ranging from routine preventive treatment to the most advanced restorative procedures. If you are pregnant, we will do everything we can to help you feel comfortable in the dental chair. And you can rest assured that any treatment we recommend will be completely safe for you and your baby.
To schedule an appointment, contact our Denver dentists today.
Periodontal Disease
Gum disease is an incredibly common condition among the general population. But when you are expecting a baby, your risk for gingivitis, the beginning stage of gum disease, greatly increases. In fact, an estimated 60-75% of pregnant women experience gingivitis. Symptoms include gum sensitivity, redness, and bleeding.
Hormonal surges contribute to the increased risk for gingivitis. Symptoms often appear around the second month of pregnancy and peak during the eighth month. In many cases, gingivitis spontaneously heals after delivery.
Nonetheless, it is important to seek treatment right away if you notice the symptoms of gingivitis. Left untreated, it could develop into full blown periodontal disease. Gum disease can lead to gum recession, significant pain, and even tooth loss. Even more alarmingly, it can increase the risk of pregnancy complications, including premature delivery and low birth weight. Treatment will usually consist of a thorough cleaning. Your Denver dentists may also prescribe medications or a special mouthwash.
Cavities
Pregnant mamas are also at a greater risk for cavities. Many moms-to-be suffer from nausea and vomiting. Vomit is very acidic and may erode your protective tooth enamel to expose the softer tissues below. Further, some women may find themselves craving more sweets or carbohydrates, which can lead to tooth decay. Finally, pregnant moms may suffer from dry mouth or decreased saliva production. This is problematic since saliva helps to wash away food and oral bacteria.
Children of mothers with significant untreated tooth decay are three times more likely to suffer from cavities themselves. This is why it is so important to maintain good oral hygiene during pregnancy and, of course, to schedule routine care with your Denver dentists.
Pregnancy Tumors
Pregnancy tumors are an alarming name for a benign condition that can happen when you are expecting. These are non-cancerous growths that often develop because of hormonal changes and/or plaque buildup. They are red, have the appearance of a raspberry, and often develop between teeth.
Although pregnancy tumors are not dangerous, you should still contact a dentist if you observe any unusual mouth lesions. Your practitioner will likely perform a thorough cleaning. If the growths are particularly painful or interfere with normal chewing, he or she may recommend surgical removal.
Expecting? Contact Your Denver Dentists Today!
If you are pregnant, it’s all the more vital that you make dental care a priority. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment with our Denver dentists.
Book your appointment online or call us at 303-534-2626.
