PREGNANCY AND TEETH

Pregnancy is the greatest blessing of womanhood that completely transforms a woman into a mother who for the rest of her life sees her heart moving out of her body.

This 9 letter word holds a saga of complete 9 months which daily changes your body physically, physiologically, emotionally and mentally. But instead of wishing away these 9 months of pregnancy and complaining about the shadow over your feet, it is better to cherish every moment and realize that the wonderment growing inside you is your only chance of assisting God in a miracle called life. Do not forget a grand adventure is about to begin.

The ups and downs of hormones during pregnancy does affect your oral health to a wide extent but these changes are only temporary and shall subside when the phase is over.

PROBLEMS DURING PREGNANCY

1) BLEEDING FROM GUMS


This is known as PREGNANCY GINGIVITIS. It shows red, swollen, tender gums with bleeding either only during brushing or otherwise. This happens because of increased levels of progesterone. It starts from the second month of pregnancy.

Improper oral hygiene with continuous food deposition can worsen the condition. So it is mandatory to maintain oral hygiene with proper brushing and mouth rinsing.


2) GUM DISEASE AND PRETERM LABOUR

Severe gingivitis and periodontitis can lead to Preterm childbirth. The basic reason is bacteria sweeping in blood stream that causes increased Prostaglandins that causes premature child birth. So it is very important to brush twice with fluoridated toothbrush and use mouthwash and dental floss.


3) PREGNANCY TUMOUR
It is also known as PYOGENIC GRANULOMA. This is an inflammatory, tender non cancerous gum overgrowth which can bleed at times. This shall subside once the hormones come back to normal . I
n case of discomfort in speaking and eating it can be excised. This happens in the second trimester.

4) TOOTH SENSITIVITY
Sensitivity to both hot and cold is common during pregnancy. Poor oral hygiene can worsen the condition
Dental problems during pregnancy are quite common; but nothing that cannot be controlled on your part. Maintain proper oral hygiene and this shall appear as a very small price you have to pay for being blessed with a small wonder.


But always remember “ If there is an emergency you have to deal with it.”

And always think that “A baby is Gods opinion that life should go on.”