Please keep us up to date with any changes in your health, medications and any changes in the condition or feel of your mouth. Each day we see changes in the oral condition of many or our patients that we did not notice in the past. After investigating noticeable causes such and cavities, broken fillings or cracked teeth we turn our attention to things we can’t see. This often will include changes or new medications, medical treatments, health changes such as altered mobility or tremors. The exact mechanism or cause can be diverse. The point is that, if we are aware of, sometimes even minor changes, we can anticipate and even minimize some of the oral changes that can occur. So I recommend that each time you visit us think about what has changed in your life. Sometimes, even the smallest detail can help. You would be surprised!!

Pregnancy and your oral health.

Gum disease is the most common oral condition associated with being pregnant. As a result, the gums may appear more red and swollen, and they can bleed or become sore.
Some women avoid dental check-ups for fear of harming their baby. In truth, untreated gum infections and decayed teeth can put a mother and her baby at risk. Dental infections may be responsible for as much as 5% of low birth-weight and pre-term babies. It is important for pregnant women to have routine check-ups. Ask your dentist for more information.

Use or oral contraceptives may cause gum tissue changes in some women. Women who use birth control pills may also be more prone to healing problems or dry socket (lack of blood clot formation) after tooth extraction.

During menopause, women may experience oral changes that include pain, a burning sensation in the oral tissue, changes in taste, and dry mouth. After menopause, there is an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, which may increase the chance of tooth loss.

To help maintain healthy teeth and gums women should continue to brush twice daily with a fluoride-containing tooth paste and floss once daily. Have your teeth professionally check and cleaning at least once every 6 months (more frequently where recommended by your dentist). Exercise and a well balanced diet are also important for general health.

During pregnancy, some women develop gingivitis or gum disease. Gum disease is the most common oral condition associated with being pregnant. Some women avoid dental check-ups for fear of harming their baby. In truth, untreated gum infections and decayed teeth can put a mother and her baby at risk. Dental infections may be responsible for as much as 5% of low birth-weight and pre-term babies. As a result, pregnant women need routine check-ups. Some women experience a dry mouth while pregnant. Taking frequent sips of water and chewing sugarless gum or candies can help with this. Women who experience morning sickness need to rinse and brush their teeth more than twice a day to prevent stomach acids from stay in contact with the teeth causing permanent damage to the enamel.

Did you know that changes in hormone levels can affect women’s oral health?

Hormone levels change at 4 main times during a women’s life and include puberty, menstration, pregnancy, and menopause. Changes in oral health can occur during all these times. Oral contraceptives can also have an impact on oral health.

During puberty, hormone fluctuations make the gums more susceptible to gum disease. As a result, the gums may appear more red and swollen, and they can bleed.

During menstration, some women have a tendency to develop canker sores and cold sores and some women even find this becomes a pattern during all menstral cycles.