Women Dental Care

Women need to be more careful with their oral health as they pass through different stages of life. These changes are directly related to surges in sex hormone levels starting right from puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, lactation and menopause. The gums of women become more sensitive to plaque, the bacterial film that promotes tooth decay and gum disease

As compared to men, women are diagnosed more with TMJ, Myofascial pain, dry mouth, and eating disorders. If you avoid going for regular dental visits, you may allow a condition to worsen. The key to reducing dental complications and subsequent high bills is prevention. Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums and catching problems early.

Puberty: As the surge in hormones happens during puberty, it may cause the gums to swell, especially during menstruation. Herpes-type lesions and ulcers also can develop. Girls may experience sensitive gums that react more to irritants. Many fall prey to bulimia and this disorder include a smoothing or dissolving of tooth enamel and a red, scratched area at the back of the throat.

Menstruation: Women face monthly hormonal fluctuations making some of them more prone to gingivitis or cold sores or mouth ulcers before or during menstruation. As per your case history, the dentist may prescribe the drug for cold sores and a topical steroid or anesthetic to treat mouth ulcers.

Birth Control Pills: Gingivitis is a common side effect of birth control pills, and women may also develop a dry mouth or gum pigmentation. Getting a tooth pulled (extracted) while on the Pill is best avoided, as the estrogen in the contraceptive can cause a painful condition called dry socket, in which the hole left behind fails to close up. Certain drugs, such as penicillin or tetracycline also decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.

Pregnancy: It's important for expectant moms to brush and floss with care and to continue regular dental visits for routine cleanings. It is quite common that women develop gingivitis during pregnancy due to rise in hormone levels. Avoiding periodontal disease is also critical for the health of an infant.

The first trimester, the stage of pregnancy in which most of the baby's organs are formed, is the most crucial to your baby's development, so it is best to have procedures performed during the second trimester to minimize any potential risk. Further, the recent studies also show bacteria in plaque are linked to a higher risk of giving birth to premature, low-birth weight infants. Avoid sugary snacks between meals so that you don't gain extra weight and it helps prevent decay.

It is a myth and impossible that calcium from your teeth to be drawn off and given to baby in the womb. Your growing baby will get calcium from your diet; just make sure you follow your doctor's advice on diet. Good nutrition-particularly plenty of vitamin C and B12-help keep the oral cavity healthy and strong. More frequent cleanings from the dentist will help control plaque and prevent gingivitis.

Most dental procedures are safe during pregnancy. If you are on medications for some treatment(s), your dentist or physician is the best judge to have prescribed it. Remember, the healthier your mouth is, the healthier and happier your pregnancy and baby will be. The chart below provided information in general the medications that can be taken or avoided during pregnancy. Many premature babies come into the world with serious health problems. Those who survive may suffer life-long consequences, from cerebral palsy and mental retardation to blindness