Pregnancy is quite an adventure for a woman’s body. Her daily routine continues, but her body changes… There’s someone growing inside her! During pregnancy, it’s not just the belly that changes. The entire body adapts to the new situation, which is why extra attention must be given to the care and well-being of the expectant mother. This includes her oral health, as hormones do not overlook any organ in the body. Despite being one of the less frequently mentioned warnings, maintaining oral hygiene during pregnancy is essential, as infections or gum inflammation experienced by the pregnant woman can be transmitted to the baby. As strange as it may seem, up to 70% of pregnant women experience gum inflammation or gingivitis during the months of pregnancy. The hormonal changes her body undergoes can lead to increased sensitivity to dental plaque. This allows bacteria to accumulate, inflaming and irritating the gums, which can trigger gingivitis.
Symptoms
There are signs that help us easily detect whether or not one is suffering from gum disease, which primarily develops during the first trimester of pregnancy: Bleeding gums during brushing, gum inflammation, and excessive saliva production. Bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth. Women prone to gum problems are more likely to experience gingivitis during pregnancy. If gingivitis is not treated in time, it can have more severe consequences for both the mother and the baby. According to studies, one of the risks of not treating gingivitis during pregnancy is a higher likelihood of premature birth or the baby being born underweight.
Prevention and Treatment
A check-up with a specialist and a dental cleaning are the best preventive measures a pregnant woman can take when she notices any of the symptoms mentioned above. Additionally, during pregnancy, it is recommended to brush your teeth with a toothpaste specifically designed to combat gum disease, as well as to maintain proper daily oral hygiene, which is key to avoiding oral health problems and keeping teeth and gums strong and healthy.
I am Dr. Marta Herrero, a graduate in Dentistry, Medicine, and Surgery from the Autonomous University of Madrid and a Specialist in Aesthetic Dentistry, which I am truly passionate about. …Thank you from here to all those patients who have trusted in my knowledge and professionalism.
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Professional registration Nº 28004040
Degree in Medicine and Surgery, Autonomous University of Madrid
Degree in Dentistry, Complutense University of Madrid
Master’s Degree in Aesthetic Dentistry, Complutense University of Madrid
University Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry, San Rafael Hospital, Madrid
University Specialist in Individual and Public Oral Preventive Programs, Complutense University of Madrid
Director of Radiodiagnostic Facilities
Medical Director, Smiling Dental Center
Specialist in Aesthetic Dentistry, Dr. Bruce Crispin, Los Angeles, California
Member of the Spanish Society of Prosthodontics (SEPES)
CPR Course
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