Periodontal disease, commonly called "pyorrhea," is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and, during pregnancy, carries certain risks. The mouth is an important source of infections and transmission of microbes and the pregnant woman has to take special care so that this myth of "a pregnancy, a tooth" is not fulfilled.
There are two main conditions that include periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Recall that the first is an inflammation of the gums surrounding the tooth, and periodontitis, which is normally caused by a previous gingivitis that is not treated, involves the destruction of bone tissue around the tooth.
Periodontitis has been associated with infertility, premature births and abortions in severe cases. During pregnancy it can progress more rapidly due to a low state of defenses and other factors (nausea ...).
In both cases of periodontal disease there are effective solutions that allow treated people to keep their affected teeth (as long as the periodontal disease is not at a very advanced stage), but it is best not to reach these extremes and emphasize prevention:
Brush your teeth after each meal. Proper brushing is essential for a healthy mouth and complete oral hygiene.
Eat healthy, controlling the consumption of sugary foods, industrial pastries ...
Periodically check your mouth by going to the dentist, since periodontal disease is a chronic, non-acute infection, which acts progressively. If it is detected in time, you can still act effectively on it and save the tooth.
Do not smoke, since tobacco (in addition to other multiple risks involved for women and the fetus) is related to the destruction of periodontal tissue.
Remember that if a situation of poor oral hygiene or oral pathology is overlooked, this can have important consequences for both the mother and the fetus. In pregnancy there is an increased risk and problems in the oral cavity, so do not neglect all these aspects of hygiene and health.
