Pregnancy poses several challenges for the expectant mothers during their entire tenure, demanding keen attention to their overall health. While antenatal visits keep most of the concerns in check, dental health complications may take a back seat due to a wide ignorance about their impact on a healthy pregnancy. Several studies have revealed that the increased imbalance in hormonal levels can lead to gum infections, jeopardizing the chances of a healthy delivery. Women who ignore these infections end up delivering prematurely, risking the well-being of the baby. Hence, it is imperative to understand the potential threat bad oral health can cause to a healthy pregnancy. It is equally important to be aware of the crucial measures that must be taken to avoid or reduce their harmful impacts. This article takes you through detailed insight into the 'whys' and 'hows' of gum diseases during pregnancy and a few tips to treat this critical condition.
A leading dental hospital in Gowrivakkam acknowledges that they receive visits from expectant mothers who primarily complain of gum inflammations and bleeding. Little do they know that these infections can affect their pregnancy's smooth tenure and result in preterm labors. It is found that about 70% of women develop gum inflammation or Gingivitis during pregnancy. Also known as pregnancy Gingivitis, the condition is caused by the intense hormone level changes during the pregnancy. Inflammatory responses triggered by increased progesterone levels work up with bacteria found on a plaque, and causes periodontal diseases.
Periodontal diseases weaken the structures surrounding teeth, such as ligaments, bones, and gums. Severe inflammations can also cause bleeding of gums and loss of teeth. The bacteria formed as the result of inflammation can reach the fetus through the bloodstream. In short, Gingivitis aggravates the production of Endotoxins, which in turn stimulate Prostaglandins & cytokines production leading to fetal toxicity. The entire condition can induce premature deliveries and low birth-weight babies.
While there is a growing apathy towards oral health, its impact on pregnancy is forcing expectant mothers to take necessary steps. According to the best dentist in Gowrivakkam, the increased awareness about oral health is compelling more and more pregnant patients to pay a visit to dental hospitals to ensure good oral health. If you are unsure about the symptoms, here are a few commonly found symptoms of Gingivitis:
Although aforementioned are severe symptoms that need immediate attention, it is recommended that pregnant women make periodic visits to their dentists to prevent adverse conditions. Any untreated gum infections can result in complicated pregnancy.
There is no doubt that a pregnancy that finishes its full-term delivers a healthy baby. According to medical research, pre-term babies are likely to be extremely low-weight. They have higher chances of health implications, with about 40% of premature babies dying within the first month of delivery. Complications such as cardiovascular diseases, audio-visual inabilities, chronic respiratory problems, and a weakened immune system are likely to affect a premature baby.
Best dentists in Chennai recommend that expectant mothers visit dental hospitals regularly for proper assessments and risk evaluations. Here is a list of tips that you must follow to ensure a safe pregnancy.
It is found that gum diseases are easier to treat during the earlier stages. Even easier and less complicated way is to follow a preventive care measure to avoid getting infections. Here is what you should do.
The early stages of Gingivitis can be treated with dental cleaning and scaling. During the process, the plaque will be completely removed from the gum lines, thus preventing infections. A mandatory dental examination during antenatal consultation is recommended to ensure more awareness and prevent the possible risks associated with periodontal diseases.
Also Read: Our Tryst With Dental Diseases
