Seeing a dentist before pregnancy
There is ample evidence to suggest that pregnant women with periodontal disease may have a higher risk of preterm birth or low birth weight. Many women do not prioritize oral health before pregnancy, leading to the development of various dental problems during pregnancy. In severe cases, surgical interventions and taking antibiotics may be necessary, which can have serious implications for the fetus.
There are over 500 different types of bacteria in the oral cavity, with more than 10 types of bacteria associated with periodontal disease. Among them, anaerobic bacteria are the most destructive to periodontal tissues. Neglecting oral hygiene allows bacteria to accumulate at the gum line, leading to the formation of dental plaque. This plaque irritates the gums, causing gingivitis, which can progress to periodontitis. Due to decreased immunity during pregnancy, expectant mothers are more prone to gingivitis and periodontitis. Pregnant women with periodontitis have pathogenic bacteria and harmful substances in their oral cavities. These substances can enter the bloodstream through gaps between teeth or periodontal tissues during chewing or brushing, triggering the release of substances that induce uterine contractions, such as prostaglandins. In the ninth month of pregnancy, prostaglandin levels significantly increase, which can lead to preterm birth or the delivery of underweight infants.
Therefore, women should see a dentist before getting pregnant. They should remove dental plaque, calculus, and reduce the number of oral bacteria through professional cleaning. They should also promptly fill or undergo root canal treatment for cavities to prevent the progression of dental diseases. Teeth with no value, such as decayed, displaced, or impacted wisdom teeth, should be removed early to avoid the formation of lesions. Additionally, any dental defects should be repaired in a timely manner.
Mid-pregnancy: Be cautious about dental diseases
In early pregnancy, a decrease in saliva pH can cause tooth erosion and demineralization. Refluxed stomach acid can also corrode the tooth surface, increasing the chances of dental caries. Hormone levels change during pregnancy, with significantly elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone in the bloodstream, leading to increased blood vessel proliferation and permeability in the gums. This makes pregnant women more susceptible to gingivitis, periodontitis, and in some cases, "pregnancy gingival pyogenic granuloma" which causes gum bleeding.
Changes in diet during pregnancy, such as increased meal frequency and snacking, result in a large amount of food residue remaining in the oral cavity. This provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Failure to maintain oral hygiene increases the risk of dental caries.
To prevent pregnancy gingivitis, pregnant women should pay attention to oral hygiene during pregnancy. They should brush their teeth twice a day, rinse their mouths after meals, and avoid the fermentation and acid production caused by food residue in the mouth. Regular use of a 2% baking soda mouthwash can inhibit the growth and reproduction of oral bacteria and neutralize acidic substances.
If acute inflammation of the gums occurs during pregnancy, timely treatment at a hospital is recommended. Avoid taking antibiotics without medical advice to prevent fetal malformations. Additionally, practicing self-care during pregnancy and undergoing regular dental and prenatal check-ups is essential. Any potential problems that may arise during pregnancy should be addressed promptly.
Avoiding dental treatment should be a priority during the first 1-3 months and 7-9 months of pregnancy. The best time for dental treatment during pregnancy is between the 4th and 6th months. Complex and traumatic dental procedures are best postponed until after childbirth.
Late pregnancy: Maintain oral health and dispel misconceptions
In some parts of China, especially in rural areas, there is a belief that brushing teeth during the postpartum period is not necessary. In fact, pregnant and postpartum women should maintain regular oral hygiene practices, including brushing their teeth twice a day and rinsing their mouths after meals. After childbirth, oral hygiene should not be neglected, and brushing teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush is recommended. When brushing, it is important to clean along the gum line and ensure that every tooth is thoroughly cleaned to minimize bacterial residue.
