During pregnancy, certain oral diseases may cause severe pain, trismus and other symptoms, disrupting the mother’s rest and diet, and may even affect fetal health. However, many dental treatments are not advisable during pregnancy. Therefore, a comprehensive dental examination and scaling should be completed before conception. Early treatment for dental caries, periodontal disease, impacted wisdom teeth, defective restorations and residual roots is recommended.
Dental caries, periodontal disease and pericoronitis of wisdom teeth are common oral diseases that affect maternal health. Relevant treatment is recommended to be completed before conception.

Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease manifests as swollen, bleeding gums and halitosis. Studies show that pregnant women with severe gingivitis or periodontitis have approximately seven times higher risk of preterm birth or low birth-weight infants compared with those without periodontal disease.

Dental Caries
Dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay, refers to the loss of tooth minerals caused by acid released by bacteria, forming cavities that gradually deepen. If a cavity extends into the pulp chamber during pregnancy, it may lead to pulp infection and severe pain. Pulpitis treatment is not advisable during pregnancy, as it may raise risks for childbirth.

Pericoronitis of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean and may cause halitosis, inflamed and swollen periodontal tissues, or even severe pain. In severe cases, jaw swelling and trismus may occur. During pregnancy, only simple anti-inflammatory treatment can be administered. Wisdom tooth extraction is not recommended, as it may increase childbirth risks.

 

---

Major changes in physical condition and lifestyle during pregnancy can activate oral bacteria and increase acidity in the mouth, triggering or aggravating oral diseases such as dental caries, periodontal disease and pericoronitis of wisdom teeth. This may lead to swollen gums, tooth sensitivity and even severe pain. It is essential to maintain self-cleaning measures including rinsing, toothbrushing and dental flossing during pregnancy.
Increased Bacterial Activity
Hormonal changes during pregnancy greatly increase the volume of oral bacteria and make them more destructive.

Heartburn and Morning Sickness
Heartburn and morning sickness cause gastric acid to reflux into the esophagus or oral cavity, creating an acidic environment in the mouth.

High Intake of Acidic Foods
Many pregnant women crave acidic foods, which leads to a highly acidic oral environment.

Infrequent Toothbrushing
Pregnant women often feel nauseous or gag while brushing their back teeth, causing them to avoid brushing and failing to remove dental plaque in a timely manner.