Making plans to get pregnant is a big step and an exciting time for you and your partner! Unfortunately, if you have trouble conceiving, it can also be frustrating and more than a little discouraging.
As part of your plan to conceive, it’s essential to make sure your body is healthy. That includes your oral health, too—particularly the health of your gums. Many couples in LA, Inglewood, Lynwood, and Pico Rivera are surprised to learn that untreated gum disease may be affecting their fertility and ability to conceive quickly.
Gum Disease and Fertility Issues
According to a recent article dedicated to fertility issues, average times for conception for healthy couples is about five months. For those with gum or periodontal disease, it can take over seven months to conceive.
Men have to be proactive with their oral health too; periodontal (gum) disease has also been shown to decrease sperm count, extending the length of time it takes to conceive even further.
Before You Become Pregnant
Gum disease is often the result of poor oral hygiene but may also be related to factors like genetics and whether or not you smoke. If you and your partner are planning on conceiving soon, be sure to make your dentist part of your health care team.
Start by scheduling a professional teeth cleaning with your Lynwood, CA general dentist. Even if you brush and floss thoroughly at home, you can’t remove all the plaque and tartar, but your dental hygienist can.
If your dentist or hygienist finds signs of gum infection, they’ll discuss plans with you to eliminate it, which will include improved oral hygiene at home and periodic check-ins.
Oral Health and Gum Care during Pregnancy
Once you conceive, you must make it a priority to maintain excellent oral health. In addition to many other health conditions, gum disease during pregnancy has also been linked to premature or low birthweight babies.
Check in with your dentist at around 12 and 24 weeks—or as instructed—for a dental cleaning. They will make sure your gums are healthy and free of periodontal disease; if your dentist or hygienist finds signs of gum infection, they’ll take immediate steps to plan treatment to eliminate it.
Call PhD Dental to Schedule a Dental Cleaning
Healthy teeth and gums are always important, but even more so when you’re planning to get pregnant. Call your family dentist in LA, Inglewood, Lynwood, and Pico Rivera to schedule a teeth cleaning and comprehensive dental exam.