By Arthur Kezian
Keeping your teeth and gums in good condition is very important, and
it’s twice as important during pregnancy. During pregnancy, there are many
hormonal changes in the body that may increase the risk of gingivitis, a type
of gum disease. A severe case of gum disease can affect the health of a
developing baby.
To make sure you are on top of your oral health, you should try to visit
your dentist during three different periods: before, during, and after
pregnancy. Keeping up with your dental
visits before you are pregnant can eliminate future problems. Be proactive and
get your teeth cleaned, gum tissue and bone level checked, as well as a full
mouth examination. This way, you can take care of your oral health in advance
and maintain it.
You should avoid dental appointments during
the first trimester and second half of your third trimester because these are
vital times for the baby’s growth and development. However, during the second
trimester, you should visit your dentist and have your
gums examined as well as have a thorough cleaning (optional procedures should
be put off until after you have delivered the baby).
It is important to keep up with your regular
periodontal examinations (especially during pregnancy). Pay very close
attention to your gums. During pregnancy, about 60% of women experience
pregnancy gingivitis. An increase in hormone levels can also increase levels of
plaque in the mouth. This amount of plaque build up can definitely affect the
gums. If you notice tender, puffy, red or bleeding gums, those are major signs
to visit your dentist. A dentist can see you,
and if the case is extreme, you can be referred to a gum specialist.
Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with
mouthwash are all twice as important during pregnancy. Be extra cautious and
spend more time brushing your teeth, at least two minutes in the morning and
two minutes at night before you go to bed. Floss in between your teeth very
thoroughly, at least once a day, and try to use mouthwash to rinse out access
bacteria. If you experience morning sickness during pregnancy and put off
brushing because of that, try changing your toothpaste and getting one without
much flavor; ask your dentist for any recommendations.
Dental X-Rays should be avoided during pregnancy, but if there is a
dental emergency where an X-Ray is needed, don’t panic. As long as your dentist
follows modern technological advances, as in uses digital X-Rays, then one or
two X-Rays should be safe. Dr. Arthur A. Kezian, keeps up with the latest technology. His dental X-Ray
machines are top of the line machines and are all computerized. This means they
have minimal radiation, are quick and easy, and show up on the screen in front
of you right when the X-Ray is taken. Visit his office to see the difference.
After you have delivered your baby, it is still important to keep up
with your dental visits. Of course with a new baby this can be difficult, but
try to set aside a day for yourself and get your periodontal examination and
cleaning.
For more information regarding oral health
and pregnancy, call Dr. Arthur A. Kezian and staff. He is a dental professional with a staff that is more than happy to help you with all your questions. If
you are looking for a dentist who will take care of you, you have found the
right office.
Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 http://www.drkezian.com
-N.S.
