🤰 Smiling for two: oral health during pregnancy at Clínica Dental Acosta Cubero (Vélez-Málaga) 💖

Pregnancy is a wonderful stage of life, full of significant changes in a woman’s body. While the focus is often on diet, exercise and visits to the gynaecologist, oral health during pregnancy is crucial and sometimes overlooked. Hormonal changes and changes in habits can have a direct impact on the mum-to-be’s mouth, which in turn can affect the baby’s health. At Clínica Dental Acosta Cubero, located in Torre del Mar, Vélez-Málaga, we understand how important this time is and offer you the specialised care you need to keep a healthy, radiant smile for you and for the little one growing inside you. Read on to find out how to look after your mouth during pregnancy! 👇

Why does pregnancy affect oral health? 🤔

During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through a series of hormonal changes (higher levels of oestrogen and progesterone) that can directly affect the mouth:

1. Pregnancy gingivitis: this is the most common oral condition during pregnancy. Gums can become more sensitive, red and swollen, and bleed easily when you brush or floss. This is due to the gums overreacting to bacterial plaque because of hormonal changes. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. 🩸
2. Higher risk of tooth decay: changes in diet (cravings, eating more sweets), increased acidity in the mouth (especially with morning sickness or vomiting) and, at times, less thorough oral hygiene due to tiredness can all make you more prone to cavities.
3. Dental erosion: frequent vomiting can expose teeth to stomach acid, which wears away tooth enamel.
4. Tooth mobility (temporary): in rare cases, hormones can affect the ligaments that hold the teeth in place and cause slight mobility, which is usually temporary.
5. Pregnancy granuloma (epulis gravidarum): a benign, non-cancerous growth on the gum that appears as a red lump, often around the front teeth. It usually disappears after giving birth, but if it causes discomfort, it can be removed.

How does the mother’s oral health affect the baby? 👶

Research has shown that there is a link between the mother’s oral health and the baby’s health. Periodontitis (advanced gum disease) in the mother has been associated with a higher risk of:

• Premature birth.
• Low birth weight.

Although more research is needed to establish a direct causal relationship, what is clear is that a healthy mouth in the mother is an important factor for a healthy pregnancy. What’s more, bacteria from the mother’s mouth can be passed on to the baby after birth, so a healthy mouth is key to giving your baby a more favourable oral environment from the start.

Is it safe to go to the dentist during pregnancy? ✅

Absolutely! Not only is it safe, it is highly recommended and essential. At Clínica Dental Acosta Cubero we look after your safety and comfort at every visit:

• Check-ups and cleanings: they are completely safe and vital. A professional dental cleaning helps to control pregnancy gingivitis and prevent tooth decay.
• Dental treatments: most dental treatments, such as fillings or root canal treatment, are safe during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester. We postpone non-urgent cosmetic treatments (such as teeth whitening) and complex surgery until after the birth.
• Local anaesthetic: it is safe for you and your baby at the right doses, and it is essential to avoid stress and pain during treatment.
• X-rays: if they are absolutely necessary (for example, to diagnose an acute problem), they are taken with special precautions, such as lead aprons to protect the foetus, and always with digital radiology, which significantly reduces exposure.
• Let us know: it is essential that you tell us you are pregnant and which trimester you are in, so that we can adapt your treatment and take the necessary precautions.

Tips for keeping optimal oral health during pregnancy 🤰🦷

At Clínica Dental Acosta Cubero we recommend the following to look after your smile while you are expecting your baby in Vélez-Málaga:

1. Brush your teeth often and gently: at least twice a day. If you suffer from nausea and vomiting, brush after each episode or at least rinse with water and fluoride. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. Floss every day: to remove plaque between your teeth and below the gum line, where the bacteria that cause gingivitis easily build up.
3. Fluoride mouthwash (alcohol-free): it helps strengthen enamel and fight tooth decay. Ask your dentist about it.
4. Balanced diet: cut down on sugar and carbohydrates, and choose foods rich in the vitamins and minerals that are essential for oral health (calcium, vitamin D, vitamin C).
5. Avoid tobacco and alcohol: they are harmful both to your mouth and to your baby’s development.
6. Don’t self-medicate: if you feel pain or discomfort, check with your dentist and your gynaecologist before taking any medication.
7. Regular dental visits: book at least one check-up and cleaning at Clínica Dental Acosta Cubero during your pregnancy. If you have gingivitis, you may need more frequent visits.

Your smile is part of a healthy pregnancy in Vélez-Málaga! 💖

Pregnancy is a time to pay special attention to your body and your wellbeing. Don’t forget to include your oral health in that all-round care. At Clínica Dental Acosta Cubero, in Torre del Mar, we are here to support you through this special stage, in a safe, professional and caring environment. Get in touch with us today and book your appointment! We want you to enjoy a healthy, radiant smile, for you and for your baby-to-be, in Vélez-Málaga. ✨