Dental Caries
In addition to gingivitis and periodontitis, pregnancy also increases the risk for dental caries.
Symptoms
- Caries can be symptom free in early stages
- Changes to the tooth include white spots, which become brown spots and then cavities (a hole in the tooth)
- Once a cavity forms, the root becomes exposed and pain occurs
Etiology
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- Bacteria (strep mutans and others) metabolize carbohydrates to create acids that erode the tooth enamel surface
- Individual, behavioral, and societal contributing factors are covered in Oral Disease Risk Factors topic.
Treatment
- Prevention is key - good oral hygiene, healthy diet, routine dental visits
- Once cavities occur, restorations (fillings), extractions, and/or root canal are needed
This process is reviewed in greater depth in the Smiles for Life "Child Oral Health" module.
