How Pregnancy Affects Your Oral Health | 94510 Dentist

Dentist in Benicia, CA

94510 Dentist


During pregnancy, it is essential that you don’t neglect your oral health. A fluctuation in hormones can cause drastic changes in your mouth. Oral health complications have been linked to increased risk in other significant overall health issues. Here are the most common oral health problems, how they can affect your pregnancy, and how to prevent them.

Family Dentist Benicia CA

Oral Health Problems During Pregnancy

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, only 22 to 34 percent of women in the United States visit a dentist during pregnancy. Regular visits to our office while expecting can allow us to detect potential issues early. Gingivitis is the biggest concern during pregnancy. The buildup of plaque is more likely to cause an expecting mother to have red, swollen, and painful gums that bleed. If the gums become even more swollen and irritated, it can cause non-cancerous pregnancy tumors. If oral health problems are left untreated they can lead to serious diseases. 

Ways to Prevent Gum Problems

The best way to decrease any risk of getting gingivitis is to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Make sure you brush the full tooth, all the way to the gums. Flossing your teeth regularly will also keep your gums healthy. Seeing your dentist more frequently for cleanings will reduce plaque and minimize any problems. 

How Bad Oral Health Can Affect Your Baby

The Academy of General Dentistry suggests a link between gingivitis and having a preterm or low-birthweight baby. If an expecting mother has gingivitis, it can cause bacteria to enter in the bloodstream and travel to the uterus. The bacteria triggers chemicals that may induce early labor.

Maintaining good oral health is important in combating problems during pregnancy. Gingivitis is the most common concern that can be managed with the help of your dentist. Without proper treatment, gingivitis can lead to other health issues that not only affect you, but also your pregnancy. Keep yourself and your child safe by having a consultation with your dentist before or during your pregnancy. We also recommend that you bring your new baby to the dentist as soon as their first tooth grows in so they can get started on the path to a healthy life. 

Contact our 94510 dental team today to schedule an appointment. 

Meade Family Dentistry
Phone: (707) 745-2121
1440 Military West, #102
Benicia, Ca 94510

Return to Blog Articles

What Our Patients Are Saying

Dentist in Benicia, CA

Dentist Benicia

I've been a patient at Dr. Meade's office for 15+ years now and they've always treated me like family. They are always willing to accommodate me (even with my super busy work schedule) to keep my teeth clean and in tip-top shape! I have always been happy and pleased with any work I have gotten done. I definitely recommend Dr.Meade's office to everyone. Thank you! - David S.

Benicia Dentist

Read Our Benicia Dental Blog

Benicia Family Dentistry

Are You at Risk for Hairy Tongue? |94510 Dentist

March 1, 2024

You may not realize it, but you could be at risk of developing an unsightly medical condition known as hairy […]

More >>

Biting Off More than You Can Chew? | Benicia Dentist

February 15, 2024

It is not uncommon for many of us to grab a bite to eat in a hurry. Americans have grown […]

More >>

Filling in the Gaps: Your Options for Missing Teeth | Dentist Benicia

February 1, 2024

If you’re self-conscious about your smile due to missing teeth, modern dentistry offers a variety of tooth replacement options that […]

More >>

Visit Our Benicia Dental Practice

Meade Family Dental | (707) 745-2121 | 1440 Military West, Suite 102 | Benicia, CA 94510

DENTIST IN BENICIA
1440 MILITARY WEST, SUITE #102
BENICIA, CA 94510
(707) 745-2121