It is well known that during the months of pregnancy, a woman goes through various physiological changes that can affect the health of her mouth and teeth, so much so that an old popular saying went “a tooth for every child”... and this may not be so far from the truth, considering that a study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, carried out on a sample of over 30,000 people, showed that, around the age of 65, mothers of three or more children have, on average, four fewer teeth than women who carried no more than two pregnancies to term.
But what should really be feared, and how can it be prevented?
In a 2014 document, the Ministry of Health set out to provide clear answers and guidance on how to proceed. Below we report some extracts from it.
What are the oral conditions that most frequently occur during pregnancy?
Gingivitis, periodontitis, epulis, enamel erosion, tooth decay.
What are the risk factors and causes of these conditions?
Changes in diet and oral hygiene, morning hyperemesis gravidarum, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and hormonal, vascular and immunological changes.
Can the presence and worsening of gum disease in pregnant women contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as miscarriage, preterm birth, intrauterine growth restriction, or preeclampsia?
Emerging scientific evidence shows an association between periodontal infection and negative pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight.
All healthcare providers should advise pregnant women to take the following actions to improve their oral health:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and use dental floss or another interdental aid every day.
- Limit the intake of sugary foods to mealtimes only; choose water or low-fat milk as your drink.
- Avoid fizzy drinks during pregnancy.
- Choose fruit rather than fruit juice to meet the recommended daily fruit intake.
- Have a dental check-up and a professional oral hygiene session if you have not had one in the last six months, or if a new condition has arisen.
- In case of problems with teeth or gum health, see your dentist, where the necessary and appropriate treatments can be carried out, even before delivery.
All healthcare providers should also advise pregnant women that:
- Dental care is safe and effective during pregnancy.
- During the first trimester, it is useful to see the dentist for the diagnosis and, if needed, treatment of conditions that require immediate care.
- In case of gum bleeding, toothache, cavities, loose teeth, or gum swelling arising during pregnancy, it is necessary to see your dentist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
- The period between the 14th and 20th week is ideal for undergoing dental treatment.
- Elective oral treatments, on the other hand, can be postponed until after delivery.
- Delaying necessary treatment for existing conditions could pose a significant risk to the mother and, indirectly, to the fetus.
Dr M. Mazzanti, dental surgeon