Dentist in 68701 | How Pregnancy Affects Your Oral Health

Norfolk Dentist

During pregnancy, it is essential that you don’t neglect your oral health. A fluctuation in hormones can cause drastic changes in your mouth. Oral health complications have been linked to increased risk in other significant overall health issues. Here are the most common oral health problems, how they can affect your pregnancy, and how to prevent them.

Oral Health Problems During Pregnancy

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, only 22 to 34 percent of women in the United States visit a dentist during pregnancy. Regular visits to our Norfolk dental office while expecting can allow us to detect potential issues early. Gingivitis is the biggest concern during pregnancy. The buildup of plaque is more likely to cause an expecting mother to have red, swollen, and painful gums that bleed. If the gums become even more swollen and irritated, it can cause non-cancerous pregnancy tumors. If oral health problems are left untreated they can lead to serious diseases.

Ways to Prevent Gum Problems

The best way to decrease any risk of getting gingivitis is to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Make sure you brush the full tooth, all the way to the gums. Flossing your teeth regularly will also keep your gums healthy. Seeing your dentist in Norfolk more frequently for cleanings will reduce plaque and minimize any problems.

How Bad Oral Health Can Affect Your Baby

The Academy of General Dentistry suggests a link between gingivitis and having a preterm or low-birthweight baby. If an expecting mother has gingivitis, it can cause bacteria to enter in the bloodstream and travel to the uterus. The bacteria triggers chemicals that may induce early labor.

Maintaining good oral health is important in combating problems during pregnancy. Gingivitis is the most common concern that can be managed with the help of your Norfolk dentist. Without proper treatment, gingivitis can lead to other health issues that not only affect you, but also your pregnancy. Keep yourself and your child safe by having a consultation with your dentist before or during your pregnancy. We also recommend that you bring your new baby to the dentist as soon as their first tooth grows in so they can get started on the path to a healthy life.

Contact our dental team today to schedule an appointment.

Family 1st Dental of Norfolk – Taylor Avenue
Phone: (402) 371-6566
Url: https://ffdnorfolktaylor.com/
2104 Taylor Avenue
Norfolk, NE 68701

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Norfolk Dental Office

Norfolk Location

2104 Taylor Avenue,
Norfolk, NE 68701

(402) 371-6566

Screen Shot 2019-07-23 at 11.04.44 AM

Our Dental News

dentist near me

Preventing Enamel Erosion  | Family Dentist in Norfolk NE

Do you have white spots on your teeth? Are your teeth quite sensitive? Do your teeth have cracks, chips, or indentations? If yes, then you may be experiencing enamel erosion.  Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. […]

Learn More
dentist_Taylor_Avenue_Norfolk_NE

How Chocolate Affects the Health of Your Teeth | Norfolk NE Dentist

Did you know that chocolate might not be as bad for your teeth as people may have thought? You can now eat your favorite treat without feeling guilty. Studies have shown that there are benefits to eating chocolate, however, not […]

Learn More
Taylor_Avenue_Norfolk_NE

How Probiotics Improve Oral Health | Norfolk NE Dentist

Probiotics are typically advertised as being helpful for digestion. However, studies have shown that they can also improve oral health. Probiotics are beneficial for fighting infections that lead to oral disease.   Reducing Gingivitis  A study published in Contemporary Clinical Dentistry […]

Learn More