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Any type of infection or illness during pregnancy raises health concerns not only for the mother, but also for the unborn child. Unfortunately, most mothers–to–be are not fully aware that what goes on in their oral cavities also affect their (and their babies’) overall health. The most common dental side effect during pregnancy is the inflammation of gums. In some cases, bleeding gums may also occur. Research shows that about 75 percent of pregnant women experience bleeding of their gums due to hormonal changes. Dental experts also attest that because of hormones in the body during pregnancy, pregnancy gingivitis may also abound. This can then lead to premature births or low birth weight for babies. For those who experience symptoms such as swollen or bleeding gums, it is best to consult a dentist immediately because these may be signs of serious oral problems. These issues often occur during the first trimester of pregnancy. During this time, hormones in the body cause the gums to soften. Soft, spongy gums become prone to infection and plaque which, in turn, causes the gums to bleed. Whether pregnant or not (or whether you are male or female), it is essential that your oral hygiene be in excellent condition to avoid periodontal diseases. Make sure you have regular check–ups with your Tucson AZ dentist. You can also ask your dentist how to brush and floss more effectively and teach you the appropriate plaque–removing techniques to reduce your chances of bleeding gums. For those worrying about how much the treatments may cost, pregnant women may, in fact, qualify for dental insurance or reduced treatment costs. Pregnant women may receive free treatment from the National Health Service (NHS) as long as they are registered as an NHS patient and currently have a maternity exemption certificate. If you are currently registered with a private Tucson AZ dentist, ask about the charges for the dental treatment and if there are discounts. Receiving dental treatments while pregnant is generally safe, and routine checkups and cleaning can be extremely beneficial. As with any medical procedure, treatment should be done after giving birth. The US Health Department also advised against replacing fillings until after the baby is born. However, if you do need a filling replaced, your Tucson AZ dentist should provide different options.
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