Remember to see the dentist!!!

BMF26

I've been reading how pregnancy can affect your teeth and gums, and how gum disease is related to various problems during pregnancy (including pre-mature labor). So I went to the dentist - thank goodness!!! I NEVER get cavities and now I have two small ones!!! (all the calcium goes to the baby) - it's so important to take care of your teeth - just as important as going to the OB!!!  My dentist recommended cleaning every 3 months during pregnancy and then about a month after the baby delivers she said my mouth should be normal again!!!  Here's to healthy gums and healthy babies!!!

Bree4011

My dentist told me to expect at least one cavity per pregnancy.  

virginiagirl11

I've read the same thing.  Glad my 6-month check-up is next week!

blondek8

Bree4011:

My dentist told me to expect at least one cavity per pregnancy.  

::lurking::

Really? Based on what? I've seen my dentist 3 times since becoming pg and both my teeth and gums are fine. No cavities here.

mollymurphy

BMF26:

I NEVER get cavities and now I have two small ones!!! (all the calcium goes to the baby)

While as a dentist, I appreciate you spreading the word about the importance of regular dental visits and periodontal health while pregant, I must point out that your statement about the cause of cavities is patently false and encourage you to double check your facts.

Cavities are caused by the bacteria in plaque that is found on tooth surfaces, not by 'calcium' being removed from your teeth: they are 100% preventable by adequately removing the plaque by brushing and flossing, even during pregnancy.

ETA: I also disagree that you should 'expect' cavities while pregnant. I have and have had many pregnant patients who maintained great oral health while pregnant and haven't had problems myself. I think your dentist is a bit of a pessimist if he/she doesn't think that you'll be able to brush and floss properly while awaiting baby.   

stefmack7

I think I have a cavity. ARGH!! Guess I better make a stop at the dentist.

 

 

jenrdh01

the idea that the baby "steals the calcium from your teeth" is an old wives tale.  you teeth are already completely formed and the baby cannot take away from that   

bacteria in your mouth swim in a filmy substance called plaque that creates an acidic environment that causes the enamel to break down, causing cavities.  the best way to control this is brushing and flossing! plain and simple!

except when you are pregnant!  m/s causes stomach acids to also pass over teeth and those of you who have m/s know how much fun it is to brush your teeth thoroughly!  also some ppl crave sweets or eating habits change during pregnancy and that can cause problems, too! 

so, where a baby will steal you heart, she/he cannot steal your teeth

m0132

Ugh, I used to see an awesome dentist and then got put on DH's insurance that they don't accept. I went to a new one and hated the experience and am scared to try any place else. I have never had a cavity but I know my mouth wasn't in as good of shape as normal during my last pregnancy. I am past due for a cleaning and its got me freaking out!

PinkBackPack

I guess this post should also be titled - Maintain your oral hygeine!

I'm eating jolly ranchers all day, which is probably terrible for my teeth.  Thanks for the reminder.  I have an appointment in November.

Scout05

I am so overdue to go to the dentist, and now I'm afraid I would puke it they tried to clean my teeth.

As soon as this m/s fades, I am going in. Good reminder.

AmberNGIII

With my first pregnancy I got 3 cavities and a tooth with an old filling cracked!!  I also had pregnancy gingivitis (gums that bleed when flossing).  Before that pregnancy I think I had 2 cavities my whole life.  I blamed the baby for my failing teeth, but I guess it could have had something to do with the frozen cokes I drank every single day!! LOL!

p1nklemonade

m0132:

Ugh, I used to see an awesome dentist and then got put on DH's insurance that they don't accept. I went to a new one and hated the experience and am scared to try any place else. I have never had a cavity but I know my mouth wasn't in as good of shape as normal during my last pregnancy. I am past due for a cleaning and its got me freaking out!

 just an idea, does your old dentist that you like do partial payments with insurance companies? my dentist that i've used since i was a baby is not covered by my benefits.  so for the last 8 years, i've still gone to him, and they submit claims to my insurance company, and i receive partial re-imbursement.  to me it's completely worth it in order to remain with someone who i trust and like.  i HATE having work done in my mouth (and i've had a lot of it) and i can't imagine getting comfortable with anyone else doing it.  god help me if my dentist retires. (just for an example: cleaning, exam and x-rays run about $250-$300 prior to insurance.  after partial reimbursement, i wind up paying around $50.  so while using a dentist in my plan would let me just pay a co-pay of $30, it's worth the extra $20 to me to stay where i am.  for cavities, etc., you obviously wind up paying more, but again, worth it to me.)