Dental Health During Pregnancy San Diego, CA
Maintaining dental health during pregnancy is a crucial part of proper prenatal care for women. Many changes happen to the body during pregnancy, including ones that can affect dental health. Fortunately, receiving the necessary care for teeth, gums, and mouth can help patients have a safe and healthy pregnancy.
Do not hesitate to take care of your oral health during pregnancy. Our team at Mission Valley Dental Arts provides prenatal dental care in San Diego and the surrounding area to help patients maintain their dental health during pregnancy. Call us today at (619) 805-4248 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Common Dental Conditions During Pregnancy
It is vital for pregnant women to pay heightened attention to all aspects of their health, including dental health. For some women, pregnancy increases the production of plaque. This sudden increase may lead to gum disease and heighten the risk of tooth decay, among other dental problems. Such issues typically occur due to hormone changes, though other causes may include cravings for sugary foods, gum problems, retching while brushing teeth, and vomiting.
Pregnant women frequently experience cavities, gingivitis, loose teeth, periodontal disease, pregnancy tumors, and tooth erosion. Gingivitis is particularly common, affecting 60 to 75% of expectant mothers. Symptoms involve bleeding gums, redness and swelling, shiny gums, and tenderness in the gums. If left untreated, it can progress into a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis.
“For some women, pregnancy increases the production of plaque.”
Why Total Health Dentistry During Pregnancy
Expectant mothers should keep a close eye on their dental health, as pregnancy increases the risk of complications with the gums or teeth. If these complications lead to periodontitis, there will be a higher chance of the baby being born prematurely or at a low birth weight. Periodontitis is also associated with various systemic health problems, which could further endanger both the mother and the unborn child.
Conversely, pregnant women with preexisting conditions may be more susceptible to dental issues. This can lead to a never-ending cycle of health problems, making it extra crucial for expectant mothers to see a total health dentist. While most traditional dentists treat isolated conditions, complete health dentists treat the patient's health in its entirety. In other words, they account for any risk factors that may affect a person's ideal treatment plan.
“Expectant mothers should keep a close eye on their dental health, as pregnancy increases the risk of complications with the gums or teeth.”
Dental Care Measures During Pregnancy
Taking proper dental care measures during pregnancy will lower the risk of dental issues that can lead to complications. Patients should notify us if they are pregnant or planning on getting pregnant. It is typically safe to receive routine dental care throughout pregnancy. Having regular dental check-ups before and during pregnancy will allow us to identify and treat any dental problems early.
Regular exams and teeth cleanings are crucial during this period to prevent gingivitis and gum disease. Pregnant women should also make sure to brush their teeth twice a day and floss at least once. Maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine during pregnancy will remove plaque and lower the risk of decay and other dental issues. Patients should also tell us about the medications and prenatal vitamins they are taking so we can alter their dental treatment plan accordingly.
“Having regular dental check-ups before and during pregnancy will allow us to identify and treat any dental problems early.”
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Total Health Dentistry and Overall Health
According to WebMD, the mouth acts as an entryway to the digestive and respiratory tracts. This makes it a natural breeding ground for bacteria. Though most of such bacteria are harmless, they may quickly multiply to dangerously high levels if the patient does not practice proper oral hygiene. It should come as no surprise that oral health goes hand in hand with various systemic health conditions — particularly heart health and sleep.
Snoring and other sleep disturbances are often indicative of sleep apnea, which may be caused by oral health issues. Additionally, research also suggests that dental bacteria cause inflammation and infections that may lead to clogged arteries, heart disease, and stroke. Our team can perform a comprehensive review of a patient's medical history, current condition, and any other pertinent information to get them to a healthy mouth baseline.
“It should come as no surprise that oral health is linked to various other systemic health conditions — particularly heart health and sleep.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are some of the common dental conditions that occur during pregnancy?
Q. Why should I see a total health dentist during pregnancy?
Q. What dental care measures should women take during pregnancy?
People Also Ask
Q. How does oral health affect the gut and immune system?
Q. What are the health risks of gum disease?
Q. What lifestyle choices help promote good oral health?
FAQs
Q. Can I receive local anesthetics for dental treatment while pregnant?
A. Yes. According to the American Dental Association, local anesthetics are safe for pregnant mothers. Consequently, pregnant patients do not have to worry about the safety of receiving numbing medication during dental treatment.
Q. What happens if I get a pregnancy tumor?
A. A pregnancy tumor appears red and raw-looking. These lumps can bleed easily but will typically disappear after pregnancy. If the lumps remain after the patient's baby is born, our team can help remove them.
Q. Is it safe to receive an X-ray during pregnancy?
A. Yes. It is safe for pregnant patients to have an X-ray during pregnancy. While the radiation from dental X-rays is extremely low, our team will take all the necessary precautions to keep patients safe. We will cover them with a leaded apron to shield the abdomen and a leaded collar to protect the thyroid.
Q. How does smoking affect dental health during pregnancy?
A. Pregnant women should not smoke while pregnant. Smoking adversely affects oral health, especially gums. The numerous acids and chemicals in cigarettes directly affect the mother's oral and overall health and the baby's.
Q. What are the symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis?
A. Pregnancy gingivitis typically occurs during the second and eighth months of pregnancy. The symptoms of this condition will range depending on its severity. Early symptoms may appear as red and inflamed gums, while more advanced stages can result in severe swelling and bleeding.
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Dental Terminology
Call Us Today
Proper dental care is essential for both expectant mothers and unborn babies during pregnancy. We at Mission Valley Dental Arts may be able to help. Call us today at 619-805-4248 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
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