Oro dental health & hygiene during pregnancy

 As per WHO and American oro -dental health association , oral health is a determinant of the quality of life of the pregnant woman and her baby. 

Pregnancy is a period in which orodental health of the woman may get adversely affected . 

Due to increased levels of sex hormones during pregnancy :

Gingival inflammatory changes usually begin in the second month of the pregnancy and severity increases in the 8th month. 

There is increased sensitivity of gums 

 Tooth mobility is increased.

There are changes in the saliva secretions .

Common dental problems during pregnancy are -

Gingivitis , tooth erosion , increased tooth mobility , dental caries etc

Reasons for deteriorating orodental health in pregnant women ,  are many - few of which could be hormonal changes, dietary alterations, reduction in saliva secretion and poor oral hygiene.

These problems more commonly affect the pregnant  females with anaemia , diabetes , women of low socioeconomic status and women with advanced or low maternal age.

Any tooth infection can be passed to placental tissue, uterus and Cervix.

Periodontal diseases can result in low birth weight babies , premature births , can cause respiratory infections in the newborns , and can even be responsible for congenital anomalies , abortions and preeclampsia.Evidence suggests that most of the infants and young children acquire caries causing bacteria from their mothers Increased inflammatory reactions in the body are responsible for all the above mentioned adverse reactions .


Therefore , it is essential that pregnant women should take up regular dental check up and should maintain

good oral health , as this can reduce the transmission of bugs from mothers to the infants and young children.

Twice dental examination during 9 months ,  is very important for every pregnant woman and dental procedures, if required ,  are safe during pregnancy . Gingival diseases can be avoided  by getting regular scaling of teeth and timely treatment of the existing gingival disease , before it worsens.


Recommendations are -

Pregnant women should be educated on the consequences of pregnancy on gingival tissues and thoroughly motivated in plaque control measures, with professional treatment during 2nd trimester preferably.

Maintenance of proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing of teeth twice a day , regular antibacterial mouth rinses after the meals , avoiding too much of sugary or starchy meals and avoiding of brushing of teeth immediately after vomitting.

Pregnant women should be motivated to consume well balanced diet  rich in calcium, phosphates and vitamins ; such as dairy products, colourful fruits and vegetables , seeds , nuts , animal products etc. to maintain the health of the teeth and gums.

Dental screening should be included in routine antenatal check ups , which helps in early detection and timely treatment of existing orodental diseases. 


pics: ctto

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