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Pregnant, weaker gums and teeth
Due to the hormonal impregnation, the gum of the pregnant woman responds in an exaggerated way to the presence of dental plaque. This sometimes results in a inflammation of the gums and frequent bleeding. It’s here gingivitis. Some women sometimes develop a small “epulis”, a benign tumor in the gum tissue, which resolves after childbirth. Others, if they vomit too often in the first trimester of pregnancy, see their tooth enamel deteriorate due to the acidity of the bile. The teeth then become hypersensitive hot and cold, and can be painful. Inflammation of the gums is a pathway for germs. If the teeth are not treated, simple decay can degenerate into “toothache”, then into abscess (acute infection). Especially since an untreated infection or chronic dental pain can increase the risk of premature labor.
Dental care is possible during pregnancy
To avoid these ailments, consult your dentist. Ideally, go before you get pregnant, when you plan to have a baby. The dentist will take advantage of this examination to check that you have no cavities and to descale your teeth (no problem during pregnancy). If you are already pregnant, schedule a visit to the dentist during the 2nd trimester. As a precautionary principle with respect to the fetus, dental care is rather recommended during this period. To encourage them to consult, for two years, Health Insurance has sent all pregnant women a leaflet on the oral screening examination, from the 4th month. It is fully covered by Social Security, with no advance on costs. The last trimester, with back pain and a bulky stomach, is not the ideal time for treatment. Ditto after childbirth! But fortunately, all common treatments are possible during pregnancy: caries care, amalgamation (in filling or composite resin) …
Pregnant, no problem for a dental x-ray
The dentist also treats acute problems, such as abscesses. It can be brought to devitalize a tooth. Pregnant, no problem to benefit from a radio panoramic, in order to identify any cavities. Even if the radiation is away from your belly, the dentist will put a lead apron on you to protect the fetus from the radiation. Dental anesthesia is not contraindicated during pregnancy. On the other hand, he will avoid giving you long treatments, requiring several appointments, such as making and fitting a prosthesis. Of course, if you have trouble eating or speaking, anything is possible.
Pregnancy: daily oral advice
At home, use a soft toothbrush (neither medium nor hard) to avoid accentuating bleeding, which is very frequent. The head of the brush should be as small as possible, to avoid the gag reflex, if you are sensitive to it. Take fluoride toothpaste (1 to 500 ppm). If you can’t stand the smell of your usual toothpaste, turn to a neutral product. Nausea, which is common during pregnancy, can cause frequent vomiting, which can weaken tooth enamel. If this is the case, do not brush your teeth right away after vomiting. It prevents the protective saliva from re-lining your tooth enamel. Instead, rinse your mouth with fluoridated, non-alcoholic mouthwash. In general, take extra care and care for your teeth: wash your teeth after each meal, and replace sugary drinks with water. With these tips, you will get rid of the popular saying: “One child, one tooth”!