Dental health in pregnancy, how to avoid periodontitis

When you are expecting a baby, you are rightly worried about gynecological examinations, ultrasounds, blood tests. However, the health of teeth and gums also has its importance and should not be neglected in the nine months. In fact, hormonal changes can cause inflammation and bleeding and, if this happens, it is important to pay even more attention to oral hygiene by contacting the dentist. According to some experts, the health of the teeth in pregnancy deserves attention because it could, later on, lead to periodontitis.

Bleeding gums and periodontitis

The recommendation comes from the Italian Society of Periodontology and Implantology, which suggests dedicating yourself to particularly careful oral hygiene during pregnancy to avoid the accumulation of bacterial plaque and tartar, which can cause inflammation. In addition, experts invite you to undergo at least two check-ups at the dentist during gestation, without underestimating gingival bleeding, which can be a sign of gingivitis. Women prone to this problem during the nine months, in fact, later in the years could have a problem of periodontitis. This disorder, also called periodontal disease, is a deep inflammation involving the gum pockets and roots, predisposing to premature tooth fall. It can also promote infections because the bacteria responsible for periodontitis can enter the bloodstream.

How to perform proper oral hygiene

In short, it is important to take care of the health of the teeth in pregnancy, also through proper oral hygiene. Teeth should be brushed after each meal, using a small brush head, to reach all corners of the mouth, with medium hard bristles to ensure adequate plaque removal, without irritating the gums. An electric toothbrush is also a good alternative to the traditional one.
The teeth should be cleaned starting from the root towards the ends, on all sides and on the gums a gentle massage should be exerted. Before using the toothbrush, it is important to remove food residues from the spaces between one tooth and the other, passing the dental floss, with a movement from the tooth to the gum and vice versa. The brush, passed gently between teeth and gums, also helps to effectively remove food residues. For the choice of mouthwash suitable for pregnancy, it is best to seek the advice of the dentist.

More delicate teeth and gums in nine months

Dental health during pregnancy can be jeopardized by the hormonal changes typical of the nine months, which make the gums delicate. In fact, during this period, the level of estrogen and progesterone in the blood increases, which make the walls of the blood capillaries more permeable. For this reason, the gums appear more swollen, red and bleed easily. This condition, called pregnancy inflammation of the gums, affects more than 20 percent of expectant mothers. Women with gestational diabetes or who take anticoagulant drugs are at greater risk of gum inflammation. Usually, the disorder resolves spontaneously after the baby is born. If it doesn’t, it’s best to see your dentist.

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