Periodontal Ailment during Pregnancy


Any infection during pregnancy is a great health concern. Pregnant women must take full precaution and visit to doctor to avoid further complicacy. Periodontal disease is the most common chronic infectious disease in the world. A disease may also lead to heart disease. It increases the risk of premature births and deteriorates the condition of people with stroke, diabetes; osteoporosis and respiratory infections. People are at risk for one of periodontal ailment, take action now to protect their gums.

One should be very careful for health during pregnancy. At this stage, periodontal disease is frequent and a cause for worry, not only for the mother's oral health but also for the baby's well-being. Pregnant women may observe the formation of large, isolated growths or lumps in between or around teeth. These are often called pregnancy tumors, but are not cancerous. They tend to be allied with areas of irritation, such as plaque or calculus, and the alteration in hormonal levels exaggerates the tissue response. Treatment should be delayed until after childbirth. In fact, the presence of a periodontal infection can increase the likelihood of a child born too early and too small by seven times. This increases the risk for future health problems and disabilities. Some times people inquire that how do they know if they have periodontal disease? Symptoms of this disease are often not visible until the disease is in advanced stage. However person can observe some changes in his bouth. These are: Bad breath that won't go away, Red or swollen gum, Tender or bleeding gums, Painful chewing, Loose teeth, Sensitive teeth etc.

Prevention is again the best way to avoid red, swollen gums when taking oral contraceptives. Gum disease can be prevented by numerous ways. Person must brush his teeth twice a day (with a fluoride toothpaste). Floss every day. Make a habit to visit the dentist routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning. He must eat a well balanced and nutritious diet. Try to avoid use tobacco products.

Proper care at home and regular dental visits are recommended. Women taking oral contraceptives need to also be aware that certain medications, such as antibiotics, have the ability to impair a contraceptive's effectiveness. Consultation with a dentist, periodontist, physician, or pharmacist is important prior to taking any prescribed medication while on oral contraceptive therapy.

As far as treatment is concerned, the main objective of treatment is to control the infection. There are number of treatment available. It depends on the extent of the gum disease. Medications may be used with treatment that includes scaling and root planing. When the problem is serious and dentist suggests surgery, patient must go for second opinion and then decide which one is better him. It is always better to take precaution and develop good food habits.


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