Dental health has a big impact on your overall health which in turn has a major influence on overall health of your baby. During pregnancy increased levels of progesterone and estrogen increases risk of certain oral health problems like:

1. Inflammation of gums( gingivitis)

2. Loosening of tissues and bones which inturn makes the tooth loose

3. Pregnancy tumor or pyogenic granuloma are the lumps that form on gums between teeth. These tumors usually go away on their own after giving birth, but in rare cases needs removal.

During first months of pregnancy, mothers have extreme interest in some foods especially carbohydrates and tooth brushing is neglected at times.

 Saliva flow reduces during pregnancy which therefore increase tooth decay.

 After vomitting during pregnancy mothers may not pay enough attention to oral care.

Pregnant women bleed more readily due to increased levels of progesterone and estrogen so they avoid brushing.

Also the possibility of abortion and still birth increases among smokers during pregnancy.

Over use of alcohol consumption is teratogenic in babies which causes fetal alcohol syndrome.

 Maintaining healthy mouth during pregnancy

1. Brush teeth with flouride toothpaste twice a day and floss once a day

 2. If you cannot brush due to vomitting try antacids or rinse with a mixture of baking soda and water.

3. Eat healthy foods and limit sweets.

4. Regular dental visit for professional cleaning and check up.

Dr Fozia Mir

MDS (Department of Pedodontics)

Kashmir Dental Clinic