Health · Fitness & Nutrition · 6 hrs ago
Why dental care matters during pregnancy
Pregnancy can make gums more sensitive to plaque and inflammation because of hormonal changes, and vomiting can expose teeth to stomach acid.
Dr Pallavi Vasal, a gynaecologist at Marengo Asia Hospitals in Gurugram, says oral health should be part of pregnancy care.
Gum disease has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight, although research has not established that it directly causes these outcomes.
Dental treatment is not generally something to put off until after delivery: preventive care and necessary procedures are generally safe during pregnancy, including X-rays when indicated and local anaesthesia.
The suggested routine is to brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between teeth each day, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and see a dentist regularly.
After vomiting, rinse with water and wait before brushing; seek advice for bleeding gums, toothache or swelling.
Dental care is an important part of pregnancy healthcare, according to gynaecologist Dr Pallavi Vasal.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make gums more sensitive and contribute to inflammation and bleeding.
Gum disease has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight, although research has not established a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
Vasal says preventive, diagnostic and necessary dental procedures are generally safe during pregnancy.
She recommends brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth daily and attending regular dental check-ups.
- Who
- Dr Pallavi Vasal, a clinical director of obstetrics and gynaecology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, explains the importance of dental care during pregnancy.
- What
- The article outlines how pregnancy can affect oral health and offers steps for maintaining it.
- When
- During pregnancy.
- Where
- Not stated
- Why
- Hormonal changes and other pregnancy-related factors can affect dental health. Oral health is also associated with pregnancy outcomes and a baby’s future dental health.
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- Expert
- Dr Pallavi Vasal
- Hospital location
- Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram
- Possible gum condition
- Pregnancy gingivitis
- Associated outcomes
- Preterm birth and low birth weight
- Brushing recommendation
- Twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
What people are saying
Healthy teeth and gums are not merely about a beautiful smile; they are an essential part of a healthy pregnancy
Although research has not established a direct cause-and-effect relationship, the association highlights why oral health should not be ignored during pregnancy
Preventive, diagnostic and necessary dental procedures, including dental X-rays when indicated and local anaesthesia, are generally safe during pregnancy
Pregnancy care should never stop at the womb. A mother’s well-being is interconnected, and oral health deserves the same attention as nutrition, blood pressure and blood sugar