Ask the My Dentists team: What issues should I be aware of during pregnancy?

Our staff at My Dentists will tell you that maintaining your oral health is an important part of keeping your entire body well, but never more so than when you're expecting. If you're pregnant or considering pregnancy, make a check-up appointment with us, and remember to raise the issue of your oral health at prenatal appointments with our doctors.

If pregnant, Drs. Michalski, Yeager and Pinnavaia want you to be aware of the following issues:

• Tooth Decay
Excessive morning sickness can also contribute to tooth decay, as the stomach acids introduced to the mouth during vomiting wear away the protective enamel coating on the teeth.

• Gingivitis & Gum Disease
The primary issue to avoid during pregnancy is gum disease, due to its link to premature birth. The precursor to gum disease is gingivitis, a condition in which plaque buildup on teeth irritates the gums, making them red, swollen, and sensitive. The high levels of hormones in the bloodstream brought on by pregnancy exaggerate your gums’ reaction to irritation from plaque.

• Loose Teeth
Another risk faced during pregnancy is loosening teeth. The large amounts of hormones in your bloodstream can have an adverse affect on the bones and ligaments that create the foundation of your teeth, weakening them to the point that teeth may loosen.

The ideal time to schedule an appointment at My Dentists is before becoming pregnant. Drs. Michalski, Yeager and Pinnavaia will perform a check-up to determine the state of your oral health and how pregnancy might affect it.

Give us a call at (704) 375-8577 today!