Pregnancy

The hormones are in uproar, the mood swings grow greater by the day and the physical changes become visibly clearer. A pregnancy affects the whole body, and teeth and gums are no exception. Pregnancy hormones lead to increased blood flow in the mucous membrane together with a loosening of the tissue. The chronic inflammation of the structures supporting the teeth – periodontitis – can thereby be triggered, and existing disease made worse. The first warning sign: bleeding gums

In the first three months of pregnancy the change in hormones causes extreme changes in the body. Regular dental check-ups from the beginning of the pregnancy are therefore extremely important. Modern prevention, such as the SCAN plan, offers more than the cleaning of the teeth. On the basis of medical parameters, individual risks of caries and periodontitis are established and a personal dental health plan is drawn up. The aim: to detect risks in good time, to reduce them and to keep teeth and gums healthy in the long term

Periodontitis can, incidentally, lead to more than the loss of teeth: since the early 1990s dental research has known of the connection between chronic bacterial inflammation and an increased risk of premature birth and of underweight newborns. During pregnancy the body produces more saliva, which is particularly acidic and attacks the enamel – caries bacteria can now penetrate the tooth more easily. This can be prevented with thorough oral hygiene at home and by going without too much that is sweet and sour. In the first months many women suffer from nausea and vomiting. The teeth should not be brushed immediately afterwards, because here too the strong acid attacks the enamel. Better to rinse the mouth with clear water or a fluoride mouth rinse and to brush half an hour later

It is recommended to visit the dentist at the beginning of the pregnancy. Because of the particular hormonal situation, pregnant women are more prone to dental disease. Gum disease in pregnancy generally represents a risk of premature birth, because inflammation in the mouth can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream and, among other things, trigger premature labour. These dangers can be reduced as part of antenatal care. Ideal oral hygiene at home and regular professional tooth cleaning are good protection here. The old saying "every child costs a tooth" does not hold true with proper care