Pacopecas

Dental Health
Dental Care and Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of great change in the body, including the mouth. Shifting hormones and increased plaque production can lead to inflammation, bleeding and periodontal disease, particularly if oral health is poor. Harmful bacteria from oral infection can then affect the health of the growing baby and cause premature labour, low birth weight or othermaternal problems.
Pregnant women should see their dentist as soon as pregnancy is confirmed and then regularly throughout pregnancy, or as recommended. Women trying to conceive should also consult a dentist for a check-up.
Links between mother's dental hygiene and baby's health
Studies have revealed links between poor dental health during pregnancy and poor pregnancy outcomes.
A recent studypublished in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found a link between poor dental health and gestational diabetes. Researchers from Tullane University suggested that better oral hygiene should be advised to pregnant women as a way of helping prevent diabetes during pregnancy.
Another study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that women with periodontaldisease in the second trimester were up to seven times more likely to deliver prematurely.
In 2005, research published in the Journal of Periodontology found that pregnant women with high levels of oral bacteria from tooth decay and cavities were at risk of delivering premature low birth weight babies. It is well established that prematurity can lead to a range of neonatal health problems.
Poordental health has also been linked to heart and lung disease, stroke, osteoporosis and even obesity, all of which could adversely affect both maternal and neonatal health.
X-rays and pregnancy
Excessive x-rays emit harmful radiation that is known to cause birth defects, miscarriage and other health problems such as infertility and cancer. One study conducted by the University of Washington Schoolof Dentistry in 2004 found that dental x-rays during pregnancy were associated with low-birth-weight.
Pregnant women should avoid x-rays where possible, including dental x-rays. It may also be prudent to avoid other appliances that emit radiation - such as computers, TV's and microwaves - although studies are yet to find links with poor pregnancy outcomes.
Common oral health problems duringpregnancy

The following conditions may present during pregnancy:
* gingivitis (inflammation and bleeding of gums)
* periodontitis (infection of gums and supporting structures)
* pregnancy tumours (gum overgrowth/swellings)
* tooth decay and cavities (caries)
* tooth loss.
Periodontal disease can be present in various forms including gum inflammation, infection of thesurface tissues of the gums (gingivitis) or periodontitis characterised by severe infection and damage to supporting bones and ligaments.
Symptoms include
* pain
* inflammation and bleeding gums
* bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
* receding gums
* sensitive teeth or gums
* loose teeth.
Some women may also notice small growths or swellings on their gums. These arethought to be linked to increased plaque formation and can be surgically removed after delivery. See your dentist if these occur.
Tips for good oral hygiene during pregnancy
The Australian Dental Association recommends that pregnant women
* brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
* floss twice a day
* eat a healthy diet and avoid sugary foods
* visit dentist regularly.It's also important to avoid alcohol and smoking which can both lead to poor oral health and are linked to birth defects. One study conducted by oral biologists at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine found that drinking up to 10 drinks per week increased the risk of periodontal disease.

El embarazo es una época de grandes cambios en el cuerpo, incluyendo la boca. Hormonas...