Pregnancy and Oral Health

The old wives’ tale that a tooth is lost for every pregnancy is simply not true.  While it is true that pregnancy may intensify some dental conditions, misconceptions continue to exist about some effects of a woman’s pregnancy on her health.

Tooth decay results from repeated acid attacks on the teeth.  The way that a pregnant woman would get more cavities is to eat a lot of candy, sweet and salty snacks and not maintain good oral health. (Last time I checked that is true for everyone!!)

Gingivitis (gum disease), however, may occur more frequently during pregnancy due to a rise in the body’s hormone levels.  These increased hormones exaggerate the way gum tissues react to the irritants in plaque, the sticky layer of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth.  A pregnant woman may prevent gingivitis by keeping her teeth clean with thorough brushing and flossing.

Did you know that the baby's teeth begin to develop during pregnancy?  That is why it is important that the woman have a healthy balanced diet rich in many nutrients, especially vitamins A, C and D; protein; calcium; and phosphorus.

Calcium is not lost from the mother’s teeth during pregnancy, as some have mistakenly believed.  The developing baby’s need for 400 milligrams of calcium per day is supplied by the mother’s diet.  If calcium in the mother’s diet is inadequate, this mineral will be depleted from the mother’s bones.

A woman should continue regular dental visits throughout her pregnancy, but the optimal time for elective treatment is from the fourth through sixth month of pregnancy.

Digital xrays vs Traditional xrays - The Truth!

Are there advantages to the patient with Digital X-rays vs. Traditional X-rays?

Digital Dental Radiography can reduce radiation exposure by 80 to 90% over traditional x-ray film.
Even traditional (non-digital) X-rays are very safe, with 40% lower radiation exposure than medical x-rays. However, the benefits are tremendous with digital x-rays.  The images can  be adjusted in brightness and contrast for better viewing. Patients have the opportunity to be a part of the diagnoses  because the x-rays are displayed on a monitor in front of them. The digital sensors  do not have the sharp edges that dig into the floor and roof of the mouth found on film packets.

Do Digital X-rays help my Dentist?

Digital X-rays do not require chemical processing so they can be viewed within 3 seconds of exposure. This allows the quality of the picture to be assessed immediately. No spent chemicals have to be disposed of, thus reducing environmental concerns. If referral to a specialist is necessary, a high quality image of the X-ray can be printed or e-mailed, this can expedite treatment in urgent situations.  Also, digital X-rays will never degrade over time like film can.

How often should Dental X-rays be taken?

Between the teeth (bite-wing) X-rays should be taken every six to eighteen months depending on the patient´s needs and history. Full mouth X-ray series and/or panoramic images should be taken every 3 to 5 years, again depending on individual considerations.

 

Are X-rays covered by insurance?

Yes!  In most cases  dental insurance will help with a portion of the cost to have X-rays taken.  We have an insurance expert in our office who can help answer all benefit questions!

I hope this helps clear up any concerns lingering about exposure to Dental X-ray Radiation!

Major Cause of Tooth Loss in Adults is Periodontal Disease

Three out of four adults will experience some form of periodontal (gum) disease, a major cause of tooth loss in adults.

Although it is often referred to as a single disease, there are several types of periodontal disease.  All are caused by a bacterial infection that begins as an inflammation of the gums.  When left untreated, periodontal disease can destroy the gums, bone and ligaments supporting the teeth.  One reason periodontal disease is so widespread among adults is that it is often a painless condition until the advanced stage.

Periodontal disease begins with plaque, a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that s forms on the teeth and gums.  If plaque is not removed regularly, the bacteria create toxins that irritate the gums, making them swollen, red and likely to bleed easily.  If left unchecked, the toxins cause gum tissues to detach from the teeth, creating pockets where food particles and more plaque may collect. 

The earliest form of periodontal disease is gingivitis.  The first symptoms include gums that bleed when brushed or flossed.  Other signs of gingivitis may be red, swollen or irritated gums.  Proper brushing and cleaning between the teeth with either floss or other interdental cleaners can usually reverse gingivitis.

As periodontal disease progresses, the signs can become more noticeable.  These can include:  pus under the gumline; teeth that are loose or separating; change in bite or in the fit of partial dentures; or chronic bad breath or bad taste.  Anyone experiencing any of these should seek dental care immediately.

Treatment of early gum disease includes meticulous home hygiene and regular professional cleanings.  More advanced stages of periodontal disease may require procedures to smooth and clean the deeper surfaces of the tooth’s roots and to restructure the tissue around the tooth, thus removing the pockets that hold the bacteria.