“Pregnancy is a phase in life when dental care requires special attention.", explains the Amélie, gynecologist-obstetrician. "Mums-to-be must be extra vigilant to prevent problems and keep their smiles beautiful.”
When a woman is pregnant, her oral health becomes a priority. The hormonal and physiological changes associated with pregnancy can have a major impact on the mouth and teeth. Fortunately, with the right reflexes, it's possible to get through this period with peace of mind.
More vulnerable gums
One of the main challenges during pregnancy concerns the condition of the gums. "Hormonal fluctuations, notably rising estrogen and progesterone levels, make the much more sensitive gums and vulnerable"explains our dental surgeon.
As a result, it's not uncommon to see a gingivitis gravidarum, characterized by increased swelling, redness and bleeding of the gums. "This phenomenon, also known as pregnancy gingivitis, affects up to 75 % of pregnant women."says the gynecologist.
While this inflammation is generally not serious, it can evolve into more severe forms, such as periodontitis. That's why it's essential to see a dentist regularly during pregnancy to prevent and treat these problems.
More delicate dental care
In addition to the gums, pregnancy can also have an impact on dental health. "Some dental treatments become more complex and require special precautions."explains our dental surgeon.
This is particularly true of fillings and extractions. "During the first trimester, we avoid this type of procedure as much as possible, as it can be a source of stress for the baby. And even beyond that, we carry them out very gradually, with close monitoring."explains the practitioner.
Another challenge: the increased tooth sensitivity. Mothers-to-be often tend to have more sensitive teeth, especially to cold and sweet foods. This can affect their diet and oral hygiene.
To remedy this, the dentist can prescribe suitable treatments, such as desensitizing toothpastes or fluoride varnishes. "The goal is to relieve these discomforts and allow the mother-to-be to continue taking good care of her mouth."continues the practitioner.
Reinforced prevention
In the face of these challenges prevention becomes a key issue during pregnancy. "This is a time when visits to the dentist should be more frequent."our dentist recommends.
As a result, expectant mothers are encouraged to consult their dentist at the start of their pregnancy for treatment. Then every 3 to 6 months, depending on their state of oral health. "This enables us to ensure regular monitoring, identify and deal with any problems quickly, and provide the right hygiene advice."explains the practitioner.
Essential measures include thorough brushing twice a day and increased fluoride intake. These preventive measures are crucial to avoid complications and preserve oral health during pregnancy.
Comprehensive care
In addition to dental care, oral health during pregnancy also requires a comprehensive approach involving all healthcare professionals.
The gynecologist, midwife and pediatrician play an essential role in raising patient awareness and providing support. Together, they implement a coherent strategy to safeguard the health of both mother and baby.
Pregnant women are regularly informed about best practices and encouraged to consult a dentist. "We also insist on the importance of a balanced dietrich in calcium and vitamins, to promote tooth mineralization"continues the gynecologist.
“Our aim is to provide expectant mothers with comprehensive, caring support, so that they can get through this period with peace of mind and a radiant smile."concludes our dentist.
At HELVIDENT, our healthcare professionals are with you every step of the way. Don't hesitate to Contact us for more information or to make an appointment.
