Pregnancy essentially affects every part of a woman’s body, and maintaining oral health is never more important for a woman than when she is pregnant. It’s just as vital for pregnant women to visit the dentist as it is for them to visit their OB/GYN. Women who are pregnant should also start thinking about which pediatric dentist they want to perform their child’s first dental visit. If you need a kids’ dentist in Honolulu, HI, turn to Pediatric Dentistry Kahala, and read on to learn more about the importance of maintaining oral health during pregnancy.

Many pregnant women suffer from pregnancy gingivitis, which is caused by a bacterial film that spreads over the teeth. This film contributes to the accumulation of plaque and results in swollen, bleeding gums. Pregnancy gingivitis may arise as early as the second month and typically subsides before the baby is born. It is caused by an increase in the hormone progesterone, which escalates the growth rate of certain kinds of bacteria. Pregnant women can reduce the effects of pregnancy gingivitis by brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash that does not contain alcohol.

According to a review published in Contemporary Clinical Dentistry, up to 5% of pregnant women also develop pyogenic granulomas, which are growths on the gums. Although they are often called “pregnancy tumors,” these growths are not actually tumors and are never malignant; however, they can be uncomfortable. Pyogenic granulomas typically disappear after the baby is born.

Maintaining oral health during pregnancy is as important for the baby as it is for the mother. According to the BetterHealth Channel, researchers have linked pregnancy gingivitis with low birth weight, and up to 18% of premature births may be caused by periodontal disease.

Once you give birth, it’s important to maintain your baby’s oral health in addition to your own. If you need a pediatric dentist in Honolulu, HI, turn to Pediatric Dentistry Kahala. Visit their website to learn more about the services they provide, and call (808) 737-0076 to make an appointment with a pediatric dentist today.