In a recent podcast episode, we interviewed Dr. Lejla Streets from Smiles in the Pines in Southern Pines, North Carolina. Dr. Streets shares about the critical topic of prenatal oral health, a subject that many pregnant individuals may not realize impacts both their own health and the health of their baby. In this blog post, we will be breaking down her recommendations to supporting your oral heatlh throughout pregnancy.
Why Oral Health Matters During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes numerous changes, including hormonal shifts and increased blood flow. These changes can significantly impact oral health, making regular dental visits more important than ever.
- Gum Health: One common issue is pregnancy-induced gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums caused by increased progesterone levels and blood flow. This condition can lead to bleeding gums even with good oral hygiene practices.
- Dental Health: Hormonal changes and morning sickness can contribute to cavities and enamel erosion. Increased acidity in the mouth from vomiting or acid reflux can weaken enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay.
Common Oral Health Issues in Pregnancy
Bleeding Gums: Many pregnant individuals notice that their gums bleed more easily when flossing or brushing. This is due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes. It’s important to continue with good oral hygiene practices despite the bleeding.
Acid Reflux and Vomiting: Morning sickness and acid reflux are common in pregnancy and can harm teeth. Dr. Streets advises against brushing immediately after vomiting because the enamel is softened by the acid. Instead, rinse your mouth with a solution of baking soda and water to neutralize the acid before brushing after about 30 minutes.
The Link Between Oral Health and Pregnancy Outcomes
Poor oral health can have serious implications for pregnancy outcomes. Certain bacteria in the mouth, such as those linked to periodontal disease, can enter the bloodstream and potentially affect the baby. Dr. Streets mentions bacteria like TF and FN, which are associated with increased risks of complications such as preterm birth, preeclampsia, and even stillbirth.
Risks and Bacteria: Pregnant individuals with high levels of harmful oral bacteria are more likely to experience complications. It’s crucial to maintain a healthy balance of oral bacteria through good hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups.
Proactive Steps for Maintaining Oral Health
Regular Dental Visits: Pregnant individuals should visit their dentist more frequently than the usual six-month interval. Many dental insurances cover an extra cleaning during pregnancy due to the increased risk of gum disease and cavities.
Proper Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential. Use mouth rinses with Xylitol, which helps reduce harmful bacteria. Chewing Xylitol-containing gum after meals can also be beneficial. When brushing your teeth, start with flossing to remove the plaque. If traditional flossing is painful due to sensitive gums, you can use a water pick instead. After flossing, brush your teeth. Dr. Streets recommends a toothpaste-like Boka
Diet and Habits: Avoid mouth breathing, which can dry out the mouth and promote harmful bacteria growth. Drinking water frequently and maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients supports overall oral health.
Steps for Oral Hygiene:
- Start with flossing to remove plaque before brushing your teeth. If traditional flossing is painful due to sensitive gyms, try a water pick!
- After flossing, brush your teeth, preferably with a fluoride alternative such as Nano Hydroxyapatite, that is in a toothpaste-like Boka. Dr. Streets recommends a fluoride alternative during pregnancy due to some newer research that may link prenatal fluoride exposure to behavioral problems in children.
- If you vomit, don’t brush your teeth for at least 30 minutes. Stomach acid can soften the enamel, so brushing your teeth shortly after throwing up could damage the enamel of your teeth. Dr. Streets recommends rinsing your mouth with water or using a mouth wash to rinse your mouth, then brushing your teeth about 30 minutes later.
Addressing Oral Health Issues During Pregnancy
It is safe and often necessary to treat dental issues like cavities during pregnancy. Ignoring dental problems can lead to more severe health issues for both the mother and baby. Dental procedures can be safely performed with proper precautions.
Treatment Considerations: If you experience oral health issues during pregnancy, consult with your dentist to discuss the safest treatment options. Preventive care and early intervention are key to avoiding complications.
Saliva Testing for Bacterial Balance
For those with a history of dental issues or pregnancy complications, saliva testing can identify harmful bacteria levels. This testing helps tailor a treatment plan to reduce specific bacteria and improve oral health outcomes. I did saliva testing with Dr. Streets before my current pregnancy to identify potential issues during my conception phase. After abnormal results, I started to use a probiotic mouth wash at night to help reduce the amount of harmful bacteria over several months!
Finding a Specialist: Not all dentists offer saliva testing, so it may be necessary to seek out a specialist trained in this area. Companies like HR5 Direct Diagnostic offer saliva testing and can recommend appropriate treatment approaches.
Conclusion
Maintaining good oral health during pregnancy is vital for the well-being of both the mother and baby. Regular dental visits, proper hygiene, and proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of complications. If you have concerns about your oral health during pregnancy, consult your dentist to ensure you’re taking the best steps for a healthy pregnancy.