Pregnancy and Oral Health

During pregnancy,  there is a special need for good oral hygiene because pregnancy may exaggerate some dental disorders. 

DENTAL CARIES.  Many people believe that a tooth is lost for every pregnancy.  This is not true.  Decay results from repeated acid attacks on the tooth enamel, not from repeated pregnancies.  The decay process begins with plaque, the invisible, sticky layer of harmful bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth.  These bacteria use fermentable carbohydrates - sugars and starches - to produce damaging acids.  Each time you eat, acid attacks your tooth enamel for at least 20 minutes.  Thus, if you snack often on sugar-rich foods throughout the day, you could be having acid attacks all day long!

To avoid the unnecessary loss of teeth, brush thoroughly with an ASA-accepted fluoride toothpaste twice daily.  Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners.  Ask your dentist or hygienist to show you how to brush and floss correctly. 

GINGIVITIS.  Unmoved plaque on your teeth can irritate the gums, making them red, tender and likely to bleed easily.  This condition is called gingivitis and can lead to  more serious periodontal diseases affecting the gums and bone that anchor your teeth in place.  During pregnancy, gingivitis may be more pronounced due to a rise in your body's hormone levels. 

This hormonal increase exaggerates the way that gum tissues react to the irritants in plaque.  The important point to remember is that plaque, not fluctuating hormone levels, is the major cause of gum disease.  Even though hormone changes are occurring, you can prevent gingivitis by keeping your teeth clean, especially near the gum line.  Thoroughly brush and floss your teeth daily to remove plaque, and eat a balanced diet to help keep your gums healthy.

Nutrition
What you eat during the nine months of pregnancy affects the development of your unborn child's teeth.  Your baby's teeth begin to develop between the third and sixth months of pregnancy, so it is important that you receive sufficient amounts of nutrients -especially vitamins A,C, and D, protein, calcium and phosphorus.

It is a myth that calcium is lost from the mother's teeth during pregnancy.   The calcium your baby needs is provide by your diet, not by your teeth.   If dietary calcium is inadequate, however, your body will provide this mineral from stores in your bones.  An adequate intake of dairy products - the primary source of calcium - or the supplements your obstetrician may recommend will ensure that you get all the calcium you need during your pregnancy. 

Eating a balanced diet is necessary to provide the correct amounts of nutrients to nourish both you and your child.  A recommended daily diet for a pregnant woman usually includes the following foods:

• 3 servings of foods such as milk, cheese or yogurt
• 2 to 3 servings of meat, poultry or fish
• 6 or more servings of breads, cereals and other grain products
• 3 or more servings of vegetables
• 2 or more servings of fruits

Following your physician's advice regarding diet is your wisest course.
During pregnancy, many women have the desire to eat between meals.  While this is perfectly normal frequent snacking on foods rich in fermentable carbohydrates can be an invitation to acid attacks and the resultant tooth decay.  The longer sugars are retained in your mouth, the longer the acids attack.  Some research indicated that certain foods, such as cheese, peanuts, or sugar-free chewing gum may help to counter the effects of acid attacks.  One way to avoid this is to clean your teeth after snacking. 

Professional Dental Care
As part of your regular medical history, inform your dentist that you are pregnant, suspect that you are pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant soon.  Also, be sure to tell your dentist if there is any change in your health, any change in the medications you are taking, or any particular advice your physician has given you.  This information will help your dentist determine the best time for treatment and whether to modify your treatment plan to better suit your needs.  Your dentist may also talk with your obstetrician to coordinate treatment plans. 

You should continue regular dental visits throughout your pregnancy, and non-emergency treatment generally can be preformed safely during this time.  However, you may be advised to avoid elective treatment during the first three months of your pregnancy for a number of reasons.  If you have a history of miscarriage, an elevated risk to miscarry, or if you have some other medical condition, your dentist may recommend that treatment be postponed. 

Finally, during the last months of your pregnancy, you may find it uncomfortable to sit in the dental chair for extended periods. In addition, if you have a history of premature delivery, you should avoid receiving treatment during this time.  For your peace of mind and comfort, remember that the  fourth through sixth months of pregnancy are usually the best time for treatment. 

Drugs
Some drugs and anesthetics can be used during and after dental treatment to make you more comfortable.  Your dentist will consult with your physician and use expert judgement to determine what drugs can be safely given at different times during pregnancy.  Also be sure to inform your dentist of any prescribed drugs you are taking.  This will help him or her to determine what type of drug, if any, will be prescribed during or after treatment.  Take only the correct amount of the drug prescribed.  This includes aspirin or any other over-the-counter medication.  If you are concerned about the effect any drug might have on your pregnancy, feel free o discuss your concerns with your dentist and physician.  Both are concerned about you and your child's health.

X-Rays
X-rays are important tools a dentist uses to help detect dental caries and other oral health problems.  Only the X-rays that are necessary for treatment will be taken.  The amount of radiation produced from a dental X-ray is minute and the beam is limited to a small region of the face.  Your dentist may also suggest that you wear a special protective apron during the X-ray procedure. 

A Lifetime of Healthy Smiles for the Entire Family 
As a parent-to-be, you can help yourself and your unborn child achieve the rewards of good oral health.  The special care you take now should not stop when your baby is born!  Continue to follow these good dental health guidelines: 

• Brush thoroughly with an ADA accepted fluoride toothpaste twice daily.
• Floss, or clean between your teeth with interdental cleaners, each day.
• When choosing oral hygiene products, look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance.  The ADA Seal of Acceptance means the product is safe and effective for its intended use.   The ADA reviews all advertising claims for any product bearing the Seal.  Only those claims that can be supported by appropriate clinical and /or laboratory studies and scientific data are allowed. 
• Eat a balanced diet.  Snack in moderation and choose foods that are nutritious for you and your baby. 
• Schedule regular dental visits and periodic professional teeth cleanings.

Remember, parents are role models for their children's behavior, and your baby's dental health is just beginning.  Discuss infant dental care with your dentist and become familiar with good dental practices as your child grows.  These will include appropriate pacifiers., teething, proper oral hygiene for gums and new primary teeth, use of fluoride, and the first dental visit.  Give your child a good foundation for healthy smiles and enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.

Article from Pregnancy & Oral Health
American Dental Association
Division of Communications
211 E. Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611

How can I tell if I have gingivitis or periodontitis (gum disease)?

Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it!  Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.  Unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort, it is possible to have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms.  Having regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very important and will help detect if periodontal problems exist.

Periodontal disease begins when plaque, a sticky, colorless, film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva, is left on the teeth and gums.  The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that inflame the gums and slowly destroy the bone.  Brushing and flossing regularly and properly will ensure that plaque is not left behind to do its damage.

Other than poor oral hygiene, there are several other factors that may increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:

Smoking or chewing tobacco – Tobacco users are more likely than nonusers to form plaque and tartar on their teeth.

Certain tooth or appliance conditions – Bridges that no longer fit properly, crowded teeth, or defective fillings that may trap plaque and bacteria.

Many medications – Steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure meds, oral contraceptives.  Some medications have side affects that reduce saliva, making the mouth dry and plaque easier to adhere to the teeth and gums.

Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and puberty – Can cause changes in hormone levels, causing gum tissue to become more sensitive to bacteria toxins.

Systemic diseases – Diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV / AIDS, etc.

Genetics may play role – Some patients may be predisposed to a more aggressive type of periodontitis.  Patients with a family history of tooth loss should pay particular attention to their gums.

Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or swollen.

Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.

Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth.

New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.

Loose teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).

Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present.

Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.

Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease. 

Get Your Dental Check Up Today!

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Thanking All Moms

"Mother's Day"

A Mother loves right from the start. She holds her baby close to her heart. The bond that grows will never falter. Her love is so strong it will never alter. A Mother gives never ending Love. She never feels that she has given enough. For you she will always do her best. Constantly working, there's no time to rest. A Mother is there when things go wrong. A hug and a kiss to help us along. Always there when we need her near. Gently wipes our eyes when we shed a tear. So on this day shower your Mother with Love. Gifts and presents are nice but that is not enough. Give your Mother a day to have some peace of mind. Be gentle, be good, be helpful, be kind. Happy Mothers Day.

Author: Carol Matthews

Thank you to all Mothers.

You deserve several more days to be appreciated.

Everyday.

What should I do if I have bad breath?

Bad breath (halitosis) can be an unpleasant and embarrassing condition. Many of us may not realize that we have bad breath, but everyone has it from time to time, especially in the morning.

There are various reasons one may have bad breath, but in healthy people, the major reason is due to microbial deposits on the tongue, especially the back of the tongue. Some studies have shown that simply brushing the tongue reduced bad breath by as much as 70 percent.

What may cause bad breath?

Morning time – Saliva flow almost stops during sleep and its reduced cleansing action allows bacteria to grow, causing bad breath.

Certain foods – Garlic, onions, etc. Foods containing odor-causing compounds enter the blood stream; they are transferred to the lungs, where they are exhaled.

Poor oral hygiene habits – Food particles remaining in the mouth promote bacterial growth.

Periodontal (gum) disease – Colonies of bacteria and food debris residing under inflamed gums.

Dental cavities and improperly fitted dental appliances – May also contribute to bad breath.Dry mouth (Xerostomia) – May be caused by certain medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous mouth breathing.

Tobacco products – Dry the mouth, causing bad breath.

Dieting – Certain chemicals called ketones are released in the breath as the body burns fat.

Dehydration, hunger, and missed meals – Drinking water and chewing food increases saliva flow and washes bacteria away.

Certain medical conditions and illnesses – Diabetes, liver and kidney problems, chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia are several conditions that may contribute to bad breath.

Keeping a record of what you eat may help identify the cause of bad breath. Also, review your current medications, recent surgeries, or illnesses with you dentist.


What can I do to prevent bad breath?

Practice good oral hygiene – Brush at least twice a day with an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste and toothbrush. Floss daily to remove food debris and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gumline. Brush or use a tongue scraper to clean the tongue and reach the back areas. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. If you wear dentures or removable bridges, clean them thoroughly and place them back in your mouth in the morning.

See your dentist regularly – Get a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. If you have or have had periodontal disease, your dentist will recommend more frequent visits.

Stop smoking/chewing tobacco – Ask your dentist what they recommend to help break the habit.

Drink water frequently – Water will help keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria.

Use mouthwash/rinses – Some over-the-counter products only provide a temporary solution to mask unpleasant mouth odor. Ask your dentist about antiseptic rinses that not only alleviate bad breath, but also kill the germs that cause the problem.

In most cases, your dentist can treat the cause of bad breath. If it is determined that your mouth is healthy, but bad breath is persistent, your dentist may refer you to your physician to determine the cause of the odor and an appropriate treatment plan.

Contact our office  1-704-263-8845 & make your dental appointment today.

The Mouth and Body Connection

Research studies have shown that there is a strong association between periodontal disease and other chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy complications and respiratory disease.

Periodontal disease is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gum tissue, periodontal infection below the gum line and a presence of disease-causing bacteria in the oral region.  Halting the progression of periodontal disease and maintaining excellent standards of oral hygiene will not only reduce the risk of gum disease and bone loss, but also reduce the chances of developing other serious illnesses.

Common cofactors associated with periodontal disease:

Diabetes

A research study has shown that individuals with pre-existing diabetic conditions are more likely to either have, or be more susceptible to periodontal disease.  Periodontal disease can increase blood sugar levels which makes controlling the amount of glucose in the blood difficult.  This factor alone can increase the risk of serious diabetic complications.  Conversely, diabetes thickens blood vessels and therefore makes it harder for the mouth to rid itself of excess sugar.  Excess sugar in the mouth creates a breeding ground for the types of oral bacteria that cause gum disease.

Heart Disease

There are several theories which explain the link between heart disease and periodontitis.  One such theory is that the oral bacteria strains which exacerbate periodontal disease attach themselves to the coronary arteries when they enter the bloodstream.  This in turn contributes to both blood clot formation and the narrowing of the coronary arteries, possibly leading to a heart attack.

A second possibility is that the inflammation caused by periodontal disease causes a significant plaque build up.  This can swell the arteries and worsen pre-existing heart conditions.  An article published by the American Academy of Periodontology suggests that patients whose bodies react to periodontal bacteria have an increased risk of developing heart disease.

Pregnancy Complications

Women in general are at increased risk of developing periodontal disease because of hormone fluctuations that occur during puberty, pregnancy and menopause.  Research suggests that pregnant women suffering from periodontal disease are more at risk of preeclampsia and delivering underweight, premature babies.

Periodontitis increases levels of prostaglandin, which is one of the labor-inducing chemicals.  Elevated levels prostaglandin may trigger premature labor, and increase the chances of delivering an underweight baby.  Periodontal disease also elevates C-reactive proteins (which have previously been linked to heart disease).  Heightened levels of these proteins can amplify the inflammatory response of the body and increase the chances of preeclampsia and low birth weight babies.

Respiratory Disease

Oral bacterium linked with gum disease has been shown to possibly cause or worsen conditions such as emphysema, pneumonia and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).  Oral bacteria can be drawn into the lower respiratory tract during the course of normal inhalation and colonize; causing bacterial infections.  Studies have shown that the repeated infections which characterize COPD may be linked with periodontitis.

In addition to the bacterial risk, inflammation in gum tissue can lead to severe inflammation in the lining of the lungs, which aggravates pneumonia.  Individuals who suffer from chronic or persistent respiratory issues generally have low immunity.  This means that bacteria can readily colonize beneath the gum line unchallenged by body’s immune system.

If you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease and the mouth-body connection, please ask us today at  Ronald M. Cox DDS  704-263-8845. We care about your overall health and your smile!