The Importance of a Postpartum Dental Checkup

When pregnant, it’s essential to have scheduled visits throughout and follow-up for a postpartum dental checkup.

This allows us to ensure that the pregnancy didn’t take its toll on your teeth. When you are pregnant, it makes you more likely to have cavities. You can pass the bacteria that causes cavities to your baby during pregnancy and after birth. This can cause problems for your baby’s teeth later in life.

Signs Of Gingivitis

You are at a higher risk of gingivitis. Gingivitis is inflammation (redness and swelling) of the gums. If untreated, it can lead to more severe gum disease. Pregnancy hormones can increase your risk for gingivitis. Sixty to 75 percent of pregnant women have gingivitis. If you experience bleeding gums that weren’t previously happening. It can be an early sign.

Gums that are inflamed, red, or tender to the touch. Suppose you have gums that appear to be shiny and smooth. Any of these warrant a visit to our office. Gingivitis is linked to congenital disabilities before and after pregnancy. Following your pregnancy and breastfeeding, scheduling visits with our staff is essential.

Other Issues That Can Come From Pregnancy

During pregnancy, elevated levels of progesterone and estrogen can temporarily loosen the tissues and bones that keep your teeth in place, causing them to feel loose. Lumps that appear on the gums are not cancerous; they are benign tumors.

They’re lumps that form on the gums, usually between teeth. Pregnancy tumors look red and raw, and they bleed easily. They can be caused by having too much plaque (a sticky film containing bacteria that forms on teeth). These tumors usually go away on their own after giving birth. However, in rare cases, your health care provider may need to remove them.

By committing to scheduled visits throughout your pregnancy, we can help maintain good oral health. Following your pregnancy, it’s essential to allow us to ensure positive oral health as your body returns to normal.