Many mothers to be often wonder, “What does pregnancy have to do with my oral health?”
Well, the answer is quite simple: quite a lot! In fact, dental health problems during pregnancy can be a sign of other health problems. Your oral health routine is of utmost importance during pregnancy, and should be seen as equally important as a healthy diet and regular check-ups with your dentist.
Dental health during pregnancy and how to avoid common dental problems in pre...Dr. Rajat Sachdeva
Pregnancy is a beautiful phase in the life of women. It’s a harbinger of hope, joy and unbound excitement. So, naturally, the level of care is greater during the period to ensure smooth arrival of the baby. To some, it’s also a phase when lots of doubt surface seeking answers and asking caution on the part of pregnant ladies.
Whether or not a burning question comes in the mind of every pregnant women dealing with dental problems that is dental treatment safe during pregnancy, it is something that you must know to approach the most wonderful phase in life with aplomb. The answer is YES! There is no risk whatsoever in undergoing dental work when you’re pregnant. But then, the better your oral health during pregnancy the healthier you baby will be.
Things to Keep in Mind During Pregnancy :
Dental treatment is safe during pregnancy and you needn’t bother a bit about that.
You can get dental treatment done any time during pregnancy without any worry.
However, the period between weeks 14 through 20 is perhaps the best time to get done elective dental treatment during pregnancy.
Dental treatment during second trimester carries less risk of side effects than on other period.
Immediate treatment should be sought for oral pain or swelling without waiting for the right period during pregnancy.
It’s important to let the dentist know any prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs you are taking so that right type of medicine can be prescribed for you.
You should never worry about the safety of the numbing medications or anesthetic or anesthesia used by your dentist during the procedure as it will always be safe for you, and your baby.
And getting an x-ray will be safe during pregnancy
You can always consult a top oral surgeon queens if there is problem so that it does not aggravate
. #Dentalblogger #drrajatsachdeva #delhidentist #dentaleducation #dentalcare #analgesics #dentistryworld #dentalclinicdelhi #dentistrylife #blogging #dentistry #dentists #dentalcare #dentaleducation #dentalblogging #dentalblogger #dentalblog #oralhealth #oralcare #bloggers
#pregnancy
Oral Healthcare for Pregnant Women | Maneesh GuptaManeesh Gupta
It's essential for you to take excellent care of your tooth and gums while pregnant.Listed below are some guidelines to support you manage good oral health before, throughout, and after pregnancy.
An overview on the principle managements and considerations for treating a pregnant patient in the dental chamber. This presentation includes the possible diseases, complications, drug therapies and treatment plans proposed by various authors in treating dental diseases during pregnancy.
Pregnancy affecting Oral health | Risk to Oral Health in PregnancyDr. Rajat Sachdeva
In Pregnancy, gingivitis may occur as a consequence of changes in hormone. If not treated at time can result in loss of bone support and subsequently need to remove it.
Periodontitis has also been associated with poor pregnancy outcomes including Preterm Birth and and Low Birth Weight.
Pregnancy tumor, a swollen bleeding gums in between the teeth due plaque accumulation, sticky bacteria that forms on teeth.
Dental caries is also one of the result as during Pregnancy, acid is more than usual.
Call us for the best treatment:-
Dr. Rajat Sachdeva
+919818894041,01142464041
drrajatsachdeva@gmail.com
Follow us on:-
• Google+ link: https://goo.gl/vqAmvr
• Facebook link: https://goo.gl/tui98A
• Youtube link: https://goo.gl/mk7jfm
• Linkedin link: https://goo.gl/PrPgpB
• Slideshare link : http://goo.gl/0HY6ep
• Twitter Page : https://goo.gl/tohkcI
Learn More:-
• www.sachdevadentalcare.com
• www.dentalclinicindelhi.com
• www.dentalimplantindia.co.in
• www.dentalcoursesdelhi.com
• www.facialaestheticsdelhi.com
Many mothers to be often wonder, “What does pregnancy have to do with my oral health?”
Well, the answer is quite simple: quite a lot! In fact, dental health problems during pregnancy can be a sign of other health problems. Your oral health routine is of utmost importance during pregnancy, and should be seen as equally important as a healthy diet and regular check-ups with your dentist.
Dental health during pregnancy and how to avoid common dental problems in pre...Dr. Rajat Sachdeva
Pregnancy is a beautiful phase in the life of women. It’s a harbinger of hope, joy and unbound excitement. So, naturally, the level of care is greater during the period to ensure smooth arrival of the baby. To some, it’s also a phase when lots of doubt surface seeking answers and asking caution on the part of pregnant ladies.
Whether or not a burning question comes in the mind of every pregnant women dealing with dental problems that is dental treatment safe during pregnancy, it is something that you must know to approach the most wonderful phase in life with aplomb. The answer is YES! There is no risk whatsoever in undergoing dental work when you’re pregnant. But then, the better your oral health during pregnancy the healthier you baby will be.
Things to Keep in Mind During Pregnancy :
Dental treatment is safe during pregnancy and you needn’t bother a bit about that.
You can get dental treatment done any time during pregnancy without any worry.
However, the period between weeks 14 through 20 is perhaps the best time to get done elective dental treatment during pregnancy.
Dental treatment during second trimester carries less risk of side effects than on other period.
Immediate treatment should be sought for oral pain or swelling without waiting for the right period during pregnancy.
It’s important to let the dentist know any prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs you are taking so that right type of medicine can be prescribed for you.
You should never worry about the safety of the numbing medications or anesthetic or anesthesia used by your dentist during the procedure as it will always be safe for you, and your baby.
And getting an x-ray will be safe during pregnancy
You can always consult a top oral surgeon queens if there is problem so that it does not aggravate
. #Dentalblogger #drrajatsachdeva #delhidentist #dentaleducation #dentalcare #analgesics #dentistryworld #dentalclinicdelhi #dentistrylife #blogging #dentistry #dentists #dentalcare #dentaleducation #dentalblogging #dentalblogger #dentalblog #oralhealth #oralcare #bloggers
#pregnancy
Oral Healthcare for Pregnant Women | Maneesh GuptaManeesh Gupta
It's essential for you to take excellent care of your tooth and gums while pregnant.Listed below are some guidelines to support you manage good oral health before, throughout, and after pregnancy.
An overview on the principle managements and considerations for treating a pregnant patient in the dental chamber. This presentation includes the possible diseases, complications, drug therapies and treatment plans proposed by various authors in treating dental diseases during pregnancy.
Pregnancy affecting Oral health | Risk to Oral Health in PregnancyDr. Rajat Sachdeva
In Pregnancy, gingivitis may occur as a consequence of changes in hormone. If not treated at time can result in loss of bone support and subsequently need to remove it.
Periodontitis has also been associated with poor pregnancy outcomes including Preterm Birth and and Low Birth Weight.
Pregnancy tumor, a swollen bleeding gums in between the teeth due plaque accumulation, sticky bacteria that forms on teeth.
Dental caries is also one of the result as during Pregnancy, acid is more than usual.
Call us for the best treatment:-
Dr. Rajat Sachdeva
+919818894041,01142464041
drrajatsachdeva@gmail.com
Follow us on:-
• Google+ link: https://goo.gl/vqAmvr
• Facebook link: https://goo.gl/tui98A
• Youtube link: https://goo.gl/mk7jfm
• Linkedin link: https://goo.gl/PrPgpB
• Slideshare link : http://goo.gl/0HY6ep
• Twitter Page : https://goo.gl/tohkcI
Learn More:-
• www.sachdevadentalcare.com
• www.dentalclinicindelhi.com
• www.dentalimplantindia.co.in
• www.dentalcoursesdelhi.com
• www.facialaestheticsdelhi.com
An academic presentation on Dental considerations, interventions and precautions to ensure a safe pregnancy. The presentation deals with physiology, complications and dental considerations for treating a pregnant patient.
Dental management of children with special health care needsaravindhanarumugam1
hope this will throw a light in understanding special children and dental management of the same particularly for pediatric dentistry PGs .children with genetic diseases and emotionally handicapped ( child abuse and neglect ) are not discussed here as they are separate topics.
dr. aravindhan
An academic presentation on Dental considerations, interventions and precautions to ensure a safe pregnancy. The presentation deals with physiology, complications and dental considerations for treating a pregnant patient.
Dental management of children with special health care needsaravindhanarumugam1
hope this will throw a light in understanding special children and dental management of the same particularly for pediatric dentistry PGs .children with genetic diseases and emotionally handicapped ( child abuse and neglect ) are not discussed here as they are separate topics.
dr. aravindhan
Practical Oral Care for People With Autism
Health Challenges in Autism and Strategies for Care
Communication Problems and Mental Capabilities
Behavior Problems
Unusual Responses to Stimuli
Unusual and Unpredictable Body Movements
Seizures
Oral Health Problems in Autism and Strategies for Care
Damaging Oral Habits
Dental Caries
Periodontal Disease
Tooth Eruption
Trauma and Injury
This paper was presented in the "SECOND INDIAN UNDERGRADUATE DENTAL CONVENTION-MOKSHAA'13" held on 6th & 7th April 2013 at Sri Venkateshwara Dental College & Hospital,Chennai.
The Indian Dental Academy is the Leader in continuing dental education , training dentists in all aspects of dentistry and
offering a wide range of dental certified courses in different formats.
This Presentation includes systematic compilation of the anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and pathology related to saliva and salivary glands. it also mentions about the role of saliva in dentistry. Any additions or mistakes are welcome!
Please do leave your comments and let me know if the presentations has helped you!
The presentation is available on request. Mail me at apurvathampi@gmail.com
"Early Oral Health" and what parents need to know discusses some of the ways to help your children's oral health, even before they are born. Presented for the first time at Isis Maternity in Needham, MA by Dr. Femina Ali.
The journey to having healthy teeth for life begins even before birth. What can you do, both during and after pregnancy, to help your child get off to a great start? This session will cover steps to take during pregnancy to keep gums and teeth healthy, how a mother’s oral health can affect her baby, caring for infant and toddler teeth (and making it fun), nutrition for healthy teeth, and cavity prevention. Dr. Femina Ali of Wellesley Dental Group will also answer some of the most common questions on bottle use, teething, dental injuries, and pacifier use.
Dental and oral health is an essential part of your overall health and well-being. Poor oral hygiene can lead to dental cavities and gum disease and has also been linked to heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
It's important for you all to take good care of your teeth & gums while pregnant.
Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase the risk of developing gum disease which, in turn, can affect the health of your developing baby.
This is a great powerpoint presentation on dental care for infants and toddlers. For those of you with new babies, dental care often gets lost among the various checkups, vaccinations, etc., dental care can get lost in the picture. I hope this helps. Zafar Hasan
Global Medical Cures™ | Womens Health- ORAL HEALTH
Caring for your oral health, understanding oral health issues specific to women, and learning how to recognize oral health problems.
DISCLAIMER-
Global Medical Cures™ does not offer any medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or recommendations. Only your healthcare provider/physician can offer you information and recommendations for you to decide about your healthcare choices.
KK Dental, Dr. Satwah, went to highland park's senior center to educate them about the importance of dental hygiene. Dr. Satwah performed free dental screenings on the seniors and gave them useful tips for keeping good dental hygiene.
Dental hygiene program for long term geri psychiatryLadyvet55
Locked psychiatric unit of long-term patients established successful dental hygiene program. Fully embraced by staff and patients, this program is in its 2nd year. Dental exams validate objective benefits to all.
Those who are reading this blog possibly would have been advised by their elders to brush their teeth twice in a day. But according to a sources, it has been revealed that one in four adults do not apply this task in their lives and in turn.
Wisdom Global Islamic Mission വിതരണം ചെയ്യുന്ന ജീവിതം എന്തിനു വേണ്ടി എന്ന വിഷയത്തിൽ ഉള്ള പുസ്തകത്തിന്റെ ONLINE കോപ്പി ഫ്രീ ആയി DOWNLOAD ചെയ്യാം ..ഷെയർ ചെയ്യുക
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
A Strategic Approach: GenAI in EducationPeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
The French Revolution, which began in 1789, was a period of radical social and political upheaval in France. It marked the decline of absolute monarchies, the rise of secular and democratic republics, and the eventual rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. This revolutionary period is crucial in understanding the transition from feudalism to modernity in Europe.
For more information, visit-www.vavaclasses.com
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
Francesca Gottschalk - How can education support child empowerment.pptxEduSkills OECD
Francesca Gottschalk from the OECD’s Centre for Educational Research and Innovation presents at the Ask an Expert Webinar: How can education support child empowerment?
Model Attribute Check Company Auto PropertyCeline George
In Odoo, the multi-company feature allows you to manage multiple companies within a single Odoo database instance. Each company can have its own configurations while still sharing common resources such as products, customers, and suppliers.
Embracing GenAI - A Strategic ImperativePeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
June 3, 2024 Anti-Semitism Letter Sent to MIT President Kornbluth and MIT Cor...Levi Shapiro
Letter from the Congress of the United States regarding Anti-Semitism sent June 3rd to MIT President Sally Kornbluth, MIT Corp Chair, Mark Gorenberg
Dear Dr. Kornbluth and Mr. Gorenberg,
The US House of Representatives is deeply concerned by ongoing and pervasive acts of antisemitic
harassment and intimidation at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Failing to act decisively to ensure a safe learning environment for all students would be a grave dereliction of your responsibilities as President of MIT and Chair of the MIT Corporation.
This Congress will not stand idly by and allow an environment hostile to Jewish students to persist. The House believes that your institution is in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, and the inability or
unwillingness to rectify this violation through action requires accountability.
Postsecondary education is a unique opportunity for students to learn and have their ideas and beliefs challenged. However, universities receiving hundreds of millions of federal funds annually have denied
students that opportunity and have been hijacked to become venues for the promotion of terrorism, antisemitic harassment and intimidation, unlawful encampments, and in some cases, assaults and riots.
The House of Representatives will not countenance the use of federal funds to indoctrinate students into hateful, antisemitic, anti-American supporters of terrorism. Investigations into campus antisemitism by the Committee on Education and the Workforce and the Committee on Ways and Means have been expanded into a Congress-wide probe across all relevant jurisdictions to address this national crisis. The undersigned Committees will conduct oversight into the use of federal funds at MIT and its learning environment under authorities granted to each Committee.
• The Committee on Education and the Workforce has been investigating your institution since December 7, 2023. The Committee has broad jurisdiction over postsecondary education, including its compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, campus safety concerns over disruptions to the learning environment, and the awarding of federal student aid under the Higher Education Act.
• The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is investigating the sources of funding and other support flowing to groups espousing pro-Hamas propaganda and engaged in antisemitic harassment and intimidation of students. The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is the principal oversight committee of the US House of Representatives and has broad authority to investigate “any matter” at “any time” under House Rule X.
• The Committee on Ways and Means has been investigating several universities since November 15, 2023, when the Committee held a hearing entitled From Ivory Towers to Dark Corners: Investigating the Nexus Between Antisemitism, Tax-Exempt Universities, and Terror Financing. The Committee followed the hearing with letters to those institutions on January 10, 202
13. Who Wants a $1,000,000 $mile? What is a cavity? D. Both B and C C. A hole in the tooth B. A disease A. A large hole in the head
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16. Gum Problems - Pregnancy Granuloma Courtesy of Univ. of Southern California
17. Gum Problems - Pregnancy Granuloma Courtesy of Univ. of Southern California
18. Gum Changes - Pregnancy Granuloma Courtesy of Univ. of Southern California
19. Who Wants a $1,000,000 $mile? Some signs of gum disease are… D. None of the above C. Bleeding, swelling or tenderness B. Black, hairy patches A. Red, scaly patches
20.
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23. Spontaneous preterm birth in pregnant women with gum disease Jeffcoat et al. (2003) Periodontal disease and preterm birth: results of a pilot intervention study. Spontaneous Preterm Births
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Editor's Notes
Notes are included under each slide with presentation dialog
A recent study showed that only about one third of pregnant women visit the dentist while they are pregnant. Worse yet, only half of the women in the study who reported having a dental problem went to get care. There is no evidence that routine dental examinations or treatment should not be performed during an uncomplicated pregnancy. In fact, not going to the dentist may cause problems such as oral infections that can cause the need for emergency care or affect the fetus. You should make sure you have regular check-ups and cleanings any time during pregnancy to keep your mouth as healthy as possible. Emergency dental treatment to relieve pain, swelling, bleeding or infection should be sought as soon as possible, no matter what stage of pregnancy. With today’s technology there is little radiation exposure to the fetus during dental x-rays when both a lead apron and a thyroid shield are used, so don’t worry if they are needed for emergency care. Many women experience morning sickness during the first trimester, and may not be able to tolerate any procedures or instruments in their mouth. The first trimester is when the baby’s organs are developing, so it is best to avoid medication at this time if possible. The third trimester is also difficult for tolerating dental procedures, since lying back in the dental chair tends to be uncomfortable for the mother. Lying on your back for extended periods can reduce circulation to the fetus by placing pressure on the vein that returns blood from the lower part of the body to the heart. It is probably best to schedule any necessary procedures that are longer than 45 minutes such as multiple fillings or crowns during the second trimester or early in the third trimester.
Overall, the majority of drugs commonly used in dentistry are considered safe to use during pregnancy. Commonly used antibiotics considered safe are penicillin, amoxicillin, cephalexins, erythromycins Pain and fever relief is important during pregnancy. Untreated fever can cause problems with the baby’s development, especially during the first trimester. Severe pain can cause intense stress, leading to high levels of stress hormones and increased blood pressure, neither of which are good for your baby. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is usually recommended for pain. Your dentist will probably want to contact your obstetrician if it is necessary to give you a stronger pain medication that contains narcotics, or a different antibiotic so make sure you bring the information on how to contact the physician who is providing your prenatal care with you to the dentist. Aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Motrin or Advil can cause bleeding problems and other problems, and should be avoided. You should never take any drugs that are in the tetracycline family, as they can cause damage to the baby’s developing teeth.
The primary teeth begin to form around the 4th week in utero with mineralization (hardening) beginning around the 4th month of fetal development. Cleft lip can form by the 8 th week, and cleft palate by the 12 th week, especially in mothers who have a genetic predisposition for orofacial clefting. This is very important, because babies with cleft lip, and especially cleft palate, have a difficult time eating. These defects are usually accompanied by funny-shaped or missing teeth if they involve the gum area. These defects usually require multiple corrective surgeries throughout childhood. Infants with cleft palate can get fluid in the middle ear, which can cause infections and hearing loss.
Enamel Hypoplasia is caused when something disrupts the cells that are forming the teeth. The affected area can be deformed or weakened or even missing altogether. These areas of the teeth can develop cavities very easily. It can happen due to illness or problems that occur during pregnancy or early in an infant’s life. Common causes are untreated fevers or premature birth/ low birth weight.
This game is a good way to get the group involved in your presentation. Divide t he group into two teams. Each team is to come up with an answer for each question presented. Keep score of the correct answers for each team. The correct answer here is D. The second trimester is the easiest time to tolerate a dental procedure, but you can go to the dentist any time for an exam, a cleaning or a dental emergency procedure such as a root canal.
Hormone changes, mainly estrogen and progesterone, can cause many changes in the mouth The same hormones that increase ligament laxity in other joints during pregnancy can also cause increased mobility of the teeth. Severe mobility, however, may be a sign of severe periodontal disease and should be evaluated by a dentist as soon as possible. Hormonal changes can also cause changes in saliva flow, either increasing or decreasing it. Changes in the quantity and quality can also occur, making it less protective. Some types of bacteria that normally live in the mouth increase in numbers during pregnancy. These bacteria can cause tooth decay or gum disease.
One of the body’s primary defenses against tooth decay is saliva. Saliva contains proteins and electrolytes that buffer and neutralize bacterial acids. It also contains the minerals calcium and phosphorus, which help to remineralize (harden) teeth. During pregnancy, saliva composition may show a decrease in buffering ability and calcium levels. During pregnancy, saliva may develop a lower pH or become more acidic. This change has been shown to be associated with increased levels of decay-causing bacteria. Decreased saliva flow can cause dry mouth or Xerostomia. Some women experience the opposite problem of excessive salivation, or Pryalism. Any of these changes in saliva may increase a woman’s susceptibility to tooth decay, so maintaining good oral hygiene habits becomes particularly important.
Many women experience nausea or hypoglycemia during pregnancy, which necessitates the consumption of between-meal snacks. Commonly promoted foods such as crackers may be high in starches (fermentable carbohydrates) that promote tooth decay. This increased frequency of food consumption and increase in carbohydrate intake can promote tooth decay by increasing the acid production of decay-causing bacteria.
You have probably seen dental commercials that mention plaque. Plaque is a sticky, white, almost invisible film which slowly but steadily forms on your teeth 24 hours a day. It is mostly made up of bacteria. Bacteria are so small that they are normally invisible, but when they multiply and you have thousands of them stacked up on top of each other, you no longer need a microscope to see them. If you scrape your teeth with your fingernail when you first wake up in the morning, you will see these bacteria as plaque – a white, pasty, cheese-whiz type of coating. This picture shows someone who has rinsed with a special red dye that only sticks to bacteria. You can now see where the plaque is on the teeth.
Four factors must be present for tooth decay to occur: A tooth that is not well protected by saliva or fluoride Acid-producing “bugs” (shown on the figure as “microbes” - S. mutans, Lactobacilli) Sugary and starchy foods (fermentable carbohydrates) in the mouth (shown in the figure as “substrate”) Repeated exposure to starches (shown in the figure as “Time”)
This shows what happens when the previous factors (the tooth, the bacteria, the food) come together over time. Bacteria use the carbohydrate-containing foods that we eat to produce acids, shown as the orange peaks over time. The more often we eat foods with carbohydrates, the more “acid attacks” our teeth are exposed to, and the more likely we are to develop a cavity.
The correct answer is D. Tooth decay is an infectious disease that is caused by bacteria in the mouth. As it progresses, it causes a hole in the tooth.
Eating small frequent meals, as recommended during pregnancy, can cause an increase in bacteria growth, because they have a nearly continuous food supply. Gingival fluid is the fluid that is normally produced by the gums in the crevice between the gums and teeth. This fluid contains antibodies and normally has a slightly protective effect. However, in pregnancy, this fluid contains high levels of hormones. Some types of bacteria can use these hormones for energy, and they can grow and multiply and cause problems with the gums. Saliva also contains higher levels of hormone that can trigger bacteria growth.
This is a view of the minor gum changes that can occur, often referred to as pregnancy gingivitis. This condition is easily reversible with increased hygiene and a cleaning. Pregnancy gingivitis can progress to gum disease if it is not treated. Pregnancy hormones, particularly progesterone, can cause loss of the bone that supports the teeth if gum disease is present. It is very important to see your dentist to prevent gum disease and bone loss.
In about 5 to 10% of women, the increased response of the gums in the presence of pregnancy hormones can cause irritated gum tissue to grow into a lumpy mass known as a pregnancy granuloma (often misnamed a Pregnancy “Tumor”). These usually start growing during the second trimester and are usually found between the teeth. They bleed easily and have a red, raw-looking rumpled surface. If they are small and do not cause any problems, your dentist will probably advise you to wait and see if they go away after the baby is born. If they do not go away after delivery, they can be removed surgically.
When a pregnancy granuloma becomes too large, it can get in the way of chewing. They can even cause too much bleeding and become painful. If this happens, your dentist will probably want to remove it right away and clean the teeth around the area thoroughly.
This pregnant woman has a very large granuloma, and severe irritation of the gums surrounding the other teeth as well. This lesion will probably have to be removed so the mother can eat and clean her teeth properly.
The correct answer is C. Bleeding, swelling or tenderness are all signs of gum disease. Keep in mind, though, that some women do not notice any signs until the disease becomes severe. The only way to know for sure whether you have gum disease is to visit your dentist for an examination.
Morning sickness can cause problems with oral health if the nausea makes it difficult for the pregnant woman to use a toothbrush or floss. Some women are so sensitive that they have a difficult time tolerating anything placed in the mouth. If this causes a disruption of normal hygiene such as brushing or flossing, the bacteria that are normally present in the mouth are likely to cause pregnancy gingivitis or tooth decay. The nausea that is often experienced during the first trimester is sometimes accompanied by vomiting. During the third trimester some women also develop severe heartburn or esophogeal reflux which propels stomach acid up into the mouth. Stomach acids irritate the gingival tissue. Stomach acids also soften the outer layers of tooth enamel allowing it to be removed easily. If this happens repeatedly the enamel will become thinned. This process is called dental erosion.
Tooth brushing should never be performed immediately after the mouth is exposed to stomach acid. The brushing action can remove the softened outer layer of enamel, causing it to thin. Rinsing with a solution of water that contains baking soda will neutralize the acid and allow the saliva to remineralize the tooth. If baking soda is not available, liquid antacids or plain water may be used. Studies have shown that eating a small piece of cheese will quickly neutralize acids in the mouth and boost calcium levels, helping to protect the teeth from damage. If acid exposure happens repeatedly on a daily basis, tell your dentist. You may need a fluoride mouth rinse or prescription fluoride gel to prevent dental erosion.
Many studies have shown that women who have a preterm delivery are more likely to have had gum disease during pregnancy. This makes sense because gum disease is a bacterial infection. It has long been known that infections in other areas of the body can cause preterm labor and delivery. Disease-causing bacteria produce toxins that pass into the bloodstream and cause the body to produce chemicals to try to fight off the disease process. These chemicals are the same ones that can induce contractions.
One study has been done that looks at treatment of gum disease during pregnancy. This study showed that pregnant women who are treated for gum disease are less likely to have a preterm baby, compared to women who have gum disease and are not treated.
It is very important to maintain good oral hygiene practices to prevent both dental decay and gum disease. Dental floss prevents both dental decay on contact surfaces and gum disease. Ideally, flossing should be performed once per day, before brushing. Brushing should be performed at least twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste. Fluoride remineralizes (hardens) any areas of the tooth enamel that have been weakened by bacterial acids. There is no need to rinse the mouth after brushing. In fact, NOT rinsing allows the fluoride to remain in contact with the tooth surfaces, where it is most effective. American Dental Association approved antibacterial mouth rinses are very helpful for fighting gingivitis. If you have gum disease, your dentist may want to prescribe a stronger mouth rinse that has chlorhexidine in it. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that is found in fruits and vegetables such as plums, strawberries and raspberries. It is usually made from certain hardwoods such as the birch tree. Xylitol: • Blocks bacteria from producing the acids that cause tooth decay • Decreases the levels of cavity-causing bacteria • Decreases plaque formation by bacteria on the teeth • Enhances remineralization (hardening) of weakened tooth structure Keeping your regular dental exam schedule allows your dentist to detect and treat any problems that may develop during your pregnancy.
B vitamins are important for maintaining the health of oral tissues such as the lining of the mouth and tongue. One B vitamin, Folic acid, appears to be important in the prevention of cleft lip and palate in the developing baby. Cleft lip can form by the 8 th week, and cleft palate by the 12 th week. The majority of studies have shown that an adequate intake of folate (folic acid) reduces the chances of having clefting problems, even in mothers who have a genetic predisposition for orofacial clefting. Vitamin C helps a woman maintain healthy gums during pregnancy Calcium is important for both the health of the mother’s bones and teeth and the proper development of the baby’s bones and teeth. Substituting fruits and vegetables for starchy, high carbohydrate snacks will decrease your chances of tooth decay and increase your intake of vitamins and minerals.