As the months pass, pregnant women experience a slew of unpleasant health conditions. They are also more vulnerable to gingivitis during this time, which can lead to poor pregnancy outcomes. Gingivitis is a gum inflammation caused by plaque accumulation in the space between the gum and the teeth. If left untreated, this can lead to an accumulation of germs, which can lead to bone loss around the teeth, tooth rot, and tooth loss. Onlymyhealth editorial team spoke to Dr. Mohendar Narula, Founder and Chairman, MyDentalPlan Healthcare Pvt. Ltd, about how oral health of the mother can reduce the risk of premature birth.
Did you know that poor oral hygiene in women is of the premature birth risk factors? The impact of gingivitis on pregnant women was recently highlighted in a paper published by the University of Sydney. Oral illness can have systemic consequences on the body, according to the article. Inflammatory markers and germs are released by gingivitis into the systemic bloodstream, where they may reach the placenta. This can lead to a variety of issues, including preterm delivery. Read the article further to know more.
Premature birth risk and mother's oral health
Gingivitis is also caused by a hormonal imbalance, and if it is not treated properly, it can lead to gum tissue ulcers, pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure), pregnant tumours, pregnancy granuloma, dental erosion, loose teeth and dry mouth. While it can be harmful to the expecting mother, it can also raise the risk of miscarriages, early births, and low-birth-weight babies. Premature babies are reported to have a higher chance of brain injury, vision problems, hearing loss, and other developmental issues.
Researchers looked at nearly 1,000 women's pregnancies and dental health as part of the study. Instrumentation was used to offer the group supragingival and subgingival scaling. They were also taught about the best ways to keep their teeth clean. According to the study, women who got pregnancy gingivitis therapy had a statistically significant lower risk of preterm birth and a statistically significant higher birth weight.
Also read: How Does Poor Oral Hygiene Affect Pregnancy?
Dr.Mohendar Narula, Founder and Chairman, MyDentalPlan Healthcare Pvt. Ltd says, "During pregnancy, oral hygiene is an important part, but many women may find it difficult to maintain good dental health. Around 70% of women in India experience gum problems during pregnancy. Out of all the dental issues, pregnancy gingivitis can lead to a number of systemic disorders including gestational diabetes, heart, kidney problems. Maintaining good dental hygiene regularly can help in preventing pregnancy gingivitis. Another factor to take care about is that early diagnosis and treatment is important to make sure of a smooth pregnancy”.
Tips to maintain oral health
Here are 3 important tips to maintain oral health:
1. Brushing and flossing daily
For dental hygiene, it is important to add regular brushing and floss in your daily routine. Experts recommend flossing to remove food particles and fibers stuck in your teeth. The parts where bristles cannot reach, flossing can help you. Stay cautious while flossing as it can hurt your gums.
2. Swish after every meal
As it is not recommended to brush your teeth after every meal, you can swish water in your mouth to maintain oral hygiene. To prevent bad breath and sometimes for bacteria coated tongue, you should use tongue cleaner at least once a day.
Also read: Pregnancy And Dental Care: Pre And Post Care Measures For A Picture-Perfect Smile
3. Visit a dentist regularly
Experts suggest regular check-ups from the dentist for cleaning and hygiene. Also, regular check-ups are safe for us as dentist identifies that you may need fillings or if you look at risk. Advices for clean teeth and best tools to keep your mouth hygienic, you should visit a dental expert regularly.
Most of the dentists recommend pregnant women to use softer toothbrushes and alcohol-free or saltwater mouth rinses. It is also advised that pregnancy women should go for teeth cleaning at the dentist in their second trimester. Expecting mothers need to be more careful about their overall and dental health as it is an important part. If you experience any discomfort, you should not shy away from consulting with a dentist and following their guidance.
Image credits: Freepik
