Dentistry for Women

Dental Care While Planning a Pregnancy

Planning a pregnancy? Now is the perfect time to seek preventative care and assess if you need any dental procedures. Certain dental procedures and anesthetic options may pose a risk during pregnancy, so many women choose to seek a check-up while planning a pregnancy. 

Gum disease poses unique risks during pregnancy. Many women may not realize they have gum disease until it has reached an advanced stage. Gum disease during pregnancy has been found to increase risk for gestational diabetes, and is also associated with babies being born too small or too early.

Dental Care During Pregnancy and While Nursing

A lot changes when you are pregnant or nursing, including how fast dental plaque builds up on your teeth. Many pregnant women experience “hormonal gingivitis”, with symptoms such as plaque build-up and red, sensitive gums that bleed easily. Routine preventative care can help you maintain good oral health throughout and after your pregnancy.

Menopausal and Post-Menopausal Dental Care

Many women experience “hormonal gingivitis” during menopause, with symptoms such as plaque build-up and red, sensitive gums that bleed easily. Menopausal women may also experience a dry mouth, burning sensations in their mouth, or changes in taste sensations. Routine preventative care can help prevent and alleviate some of these symptoms during menopause.

Post-menopause, women are at higher risk for osteoporosis. This often includes loss of bone density in the jaw and around teeth. Osteoporosis can lead to tooth loss, especially when combined with gum disease. Routine check-ups and preventative care can help prevent, detect, and slow down these processes. 

Finally, the risk of oral cancer increases with age for both women and men. Older women and men may also notice fillings breaking down as they age, since fillings typically only last between eight to 20 years. Routine check-ups help to provide early detection for both oral cancer, and filling break-downs.