How does pregnancy affect oral health?

The increase in oestrogen and progesterone hormones stimulates the formation of bacterial plaque on teeth. If the plaque is not eliminated, it causes a gum inflammation called pregnancy gingivitis. If there has already been gingivitis prior to pregnancy, its severity increases and it turns into periodontitis. Gums are swollen, red, and lobular and tend to bleed.

If pregnancy is planned, it will therefore help you to see a dentist in advance. Women should carefully clean their teeth, eat healthily, and orally take B12 and C vitamins during pregnancy. If it is extremely necessary, x-rays may be applied from within the mouth once or twice. No matter how low the dose is and how far the area to be x-rayed is, a lead apron should be worn.

The TETRACYCLINE group of antibiotics to cause the discolouration of baby's teeth should be avoided during pregnancy.