| ||
| Vol. 24, No. 19 |
| October 15, 2002 |
|
“Tooth Tips” for Pregnant Women Pregnant women (and women who take some oral contraceptives) experience elevated levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This causes the gums to react differently to the bacteria found in plaque, and may cause “pregnancy gingivitis,” marked by swollen, red and bleeding gums caused by brushing. Remember that the bacteria in plaque (not hormones) are what cause gingivitis. Brush twice a day and floss before going to bed to help avoid plaque buildup. What are “pregnancy tumors”? Pregnancy tumors (pyogenic granuloma) are rare, usually painless lesions that may develop on the gums in response to plaque. Although they are not cancerous, they should be treated. Pregnancy tumors usually subside shortly after childbirth. Could gingivitis affect a baby’s health? New research suggests a link between preterm, low-birth-weight babies and gingivitis. Excessive bacteria, which causes gingivitis, can enter the bloodstream through the gums. If this happens, the bacteria can travel to the uterus, triggering the production of chemicals called “prostaglandins,” which are suspected in premature labor. Should pregnant women receive dental treatment? Good oral health care is vital during pregnancy. Continue with regular dental cleaning and checkups to avoid oral infections that can affect the fetus, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease. Dentists recommend that non-urgent, major dental treatments be postponed until after childbirth. The first trimester, the stage of pregnancy in which most of the baby’s organs are formed, is the most crucial to a baby’s development, so it is best to have necessary procedures performed during the second trimester to minimize any potential risk. Dental treatment is not recommended during the third trimester because the dental chair tends to be too uncomfortable for the mother. When reclined, the chair may cut off circulation by placing pressure on the vein that returns blood to the heart from the lower part of the body. If treatment is needed, what drugs are safe? Be extremely cautious of all drugs during pregnancy. The dentist may want to treat patients with gingivitis or periodontal disease more often to achieve healthy gums and a healthy baby. Dental anesthetics such as novocaine or lidocaine can enter the placenta, but the doses used in most dental procedures are considered safe. Acceptable antibiotics include penicillin, amoxicillin, and clindamycin. It is important to avoid tetracycline, which can cause discoloration of the child’s temporary and permanent teeth. Pain products containing acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, are approved. Be wary of other over-the-counter medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen, and avoid using narcotics for dental pain. For concerns about treatment or medications, ask a dentist or physician before receiving treatment. Most dental procedures are safe during pregnancy. – Provided by The University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston and reprinted with permission from the Academy of General Dentistry
©2006 Texas Medical Center E-Mail: tmcinfo@texmedctr.tmc.edu URL: http://www.tmc.edu/tmcnews/10_15_02/page_11.html |