pregnant

CONGRATULATIONS! You're pregnant!

If you are wearing braces, let your orthodontist know as soon as possible your happy family news.

Your orthodontic treatment will continue while you are pregnant with a few special considerations.

Considerations for Dental and Orthodontic X-rays

Your orthodontist will elect not to do X-ray (radiographs) while you are pregnant. Please let all dental and medical professionals know when you are pregnant and restrain from having X-rays taken.

Pregnancy and Gingivitis

Due to the increased levels of your hormones, your gums are more susceptible to gingivitis. You may have "pregnancy gingivitis" if your gums become puffy and you are pregnant. Your gums may bleed when you brush and appear red. This is due to pregnancy gingivitis which affects up to 70% of pregnant women.

Pregnancy does not cause pregnancy gingivitis. The altered tissue metabolism of pregnancy accentuates the response to local irritants. For this reason, it is of utmost importance for your oral hygiene to be excellent during pregnancy for your to avoid the pregancy gingivitis condition.

If you have symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis, your orthodontist may recommend additional cleanings with your dental hygienist. These are best done with the orthodontic arch wires removed. If you have gingival enlargements of your gums, your orthodontist may also send you to your dentist or a periodontist for additional specialty gum care. Our goal is for you to have minimal gingival inflammation during pregnancy with no infections of your teeth or gums.

Your teeth may also feel lose during pregnancy if you have pregnancy gingivitis. Your orthodontist may recommend that your teeth be moved more slowly or not at all during the last trimester of pregnancy.

Pregnancy gingivitis can be minimized or prevented by excellent oral hygiene from the beginning to the end of your pregnancy.

If You Have Questions, Let Us Know!

If you have questions about orthodontics or pregnancy gingivitis, visit us at Gorczyca Orthodontics in Antioch, California. Find us at www.clubbraces.com.

Your body may feel hot during pregnancy as well. Due to your hormonal changes, your taste buds may have the constant urge to eat ice cream. Eat up and enjoy this special time. Come see us for braces when your pregnancy is over and be sure to bring your baby for an initial orthodontic exam at 7 years old.

PREGNANT? KNOW SOMEONE WHO’S PREGNANT? There’s plenty to think about during this time! But while you’re picking out baby clothes and reading up on childcare philosophies, our team reminds you to remember the importance of your oral health.

Gum Disease Risk

Pregnancy brings a heightened level of hormonal activity which can lead to gum sensitivity and increased gum disease risk. And some studies have shown that gum disease could be linked to pre-term labor and other associated risks. The good news is that pregnancy doesn’t cause gum disease—plaque does. So keeping up your great oral habits helps keep you safe. Brush regularly, floss every day, and don’t miss your regular dental checkups. If you’re pregnant, an ideal time to schedule your check-up appointment is during your second trimester—your pregnancy is stable, but not far enough along to risk any stress-induced problems.

Regular Checkups During Pregnancy

During regular checkups, your teeth and gums are more thoroughly cleaned than you can through brushing and flossing yourself. This is a major step in preventing periodontal disease. In the past, women were sometimes anxious about dental procedures during pregnancy. Typically, there’s never an issue, but be sure to let our practice—and your general dentist—know you’re expecting so that any appropriate adjustments can be made in your care.

Other Special Concerns

• Morning Sickness: DON’T brush your teeth right after being sick. Stomach acid makes your teeth softer and brushing can wear them down. Rinse out your mouth, and then wait a while before brushing.
• Dental Procedures That Can’t Wait: If you need to have a more involved procedure performed while you’re pregnant, be sure to (1) let us (and your general dentist) know you’re pregnant; and (2) talk it over beforehand with your OB. We want to make sure there aren’t any special details we should know.

Did You Know?

Congratulations on your pregnancy! We’re excited for you!

For more information about taking care of your oral health during pregnancy, check out these links from the ADA and Columbia University. And if you have questions, just ask us! You can also comment below, or send us a direct message on our Facebook page.