4 out of 10 Pregnant Women Skipping Crucial Dental Screening to Spot & Prevent Harmful Oral Diseases
Boston, Mass – If expecting women in Massachusetts are anything like their national counterparts, roughly 42.5 percent of them are not visiting their dentist, according to a new survey out today by Delta Dental. Oral health may not be top of mind for women when preparing for a new baby, but a visit to the dentist can help identify key health issues appearing specifically during pregnancy.
“Mothers can help their children avoid cavities by getting their mouths healthy while pregnant because babies can “catch” tooth decay from their parents,” said Dr. Linda Vidone, Dental Director of Delta Dental of Massachusetts. “Dentists would be happy to give new mothers and fathers some advice to help keep their newborns healthy.”
On the heels of Pregnancy Awareness Month, Delta Dental of Massachusetts is reminding women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant to visit a dentist for routine examination, cleanings and guidance about specific oral health issues that may occur during pregnancy. When visiting the dentist, expecting women should ask about the following issues and concerns:
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Why do my gums bleed more easily?
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“Pregnancy gingivitis” may affect women during pregnancy due to increased hormones.
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To help prevent a build-up of plaque, brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss at least daily, paying special attention to cleaning along and just below the gum line.
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What is the red lump that has developed along my gumline?
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“Pregnancy tumors” are somewhat rare red growths of gum tissue that can form on the gums between the teeth as a result of excess plaque, usually during the second trimester of pregnancy.
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Don’t worry too much, although they may bleed when irritated, these are benign and harmless, and usually subside on their own after the baby is born.
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Can I receive routine or emergency dental care during my pregnancy?
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Yes, be sure to get an examination and cleaning, but try to avoid routine dental care during the first trimester and later part of the third trimester.
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If a dental emergency arises, be sure to let your dentist know that you are pregnant. He or she will know what precautions need to be taken to resolve your dental problem.
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If you need cavities filled or other necessary procedures, the second trimester is the best time. Elective procedures like tooth whitening or other cosmetic work should be delayed until after the baby is delivered.
To learn more about dental care during pregnancy, as well as tips to protect a baby’s oral health, visit Delta Dental’s pregnancy resource.
About Delta Dental of Massachusetts
Delta Dental of Massachusetts (deltadentalma.com), the leading provider of dental benefits in the state, is a national leader in innovative programs designed to prevent oral disease, enhance the overall health of our members, and reduce health care costs for our business subscribers. Headquartered in Boston, Mass., Delta Dental of Massachusetts covers more than 2 million members and is a member of the not-for-profit Delta Dental Plans Association. Follow us on Twitter @DeltaDentalofMA and Facebook: Delta DentalMA
About Delta Dental Plans Association
The not-for-profit Delta Dental Plans Association (deltadental.com), based in Oak Brook, Ill., is the leading national network of independent dental service corporations. Delta Dental provides dental benefits programs to 62 million Americans in more than 114,000 employee groups throughout the country. For more information, visit deltadental.com. Follow Delta Dental on Twitter @DeltaDental and Facebook: Delta Dental Plans Association