Dental Treatments during Pregnancy
Pregnancy can dramatically change a woman’s body in both positive and not so positive ways. Dr. Ghasri, West Hollywood dentist, encourages her pregnant patients to maintain excellent dental hygiene and a regular dental exam schedule during this busy time. Some patients may need more frequent checkups than others, particularly if they are at risk of developing gum disease.
Morning sickness exposes your teeth to excessive amounts of acid, which can lead to dental erosion and tooth decay. Although you may be tempted to brush after suffering morning sickness, this can damage your enamel even more. Rinse with water or mouth rinse to remove excess acid from your mouth and refresh your breath. If you suffer from extreme morning sickness, talk to your doctor about ways you can reduce its incidence.
Pregnancy-related gingivitis is another common dental health concern for pregnant women. Gums tend to swell and become inflamed as a result of the increased hormones necessary to support the pregnancy. Bleeding is often the first noticeable symptom of gingivitis, which must be treated promptly since it has been linked with miscarriage, premature birth and low-birth weight babies.
In the past, women tended to eschew dental treatments during pregnancy, but regular checkups are not only safe; they are also essential to good dental health. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and floss after brushing to remove plaque from along the gumline. If you notice bleeding gums, pain or other symptoms of gum disease or other dental conditions, call our dentist, Dr. Afar, West Hollywood periodontist, for an exam.