New Survey Finds 4 out of 10 Pregnant Women Skipping Crucial Health Step  

GLENDALE, Ariz. (June 24, 2015) - A new survey out today from Delta Dental finds that 43.6 percent of expecting women in Arizona aren’t visiting their dentist, higher than the national average of 42.5 percent. Oral health may not be top of mind for women when preparing for a new baby, but a visit to the dentist can help identify key health issues appearing specifically during pregnancy. 

On the heels of Pregnancy Awareness Month, Delta Dental of Arizona is reminding women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant to visit a dentist for routine examination, cleanings and guidance about specific oral health issues that may occur during pregnancy. When visiting the dentist, expecting women should ask about the following issues and concerns:

• Why do my gums bleed more easily?
  • “Pregnancy gingivitis” may affect women during pregnancy due to increased hormones.
  • To help prevent a build-up of plaque, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least daily, paying special attention to cleaning along and just below the gum line.
• What is the red lump that has developed along my gum line?
  • “Pregnancy tumors” are somewhat rare red growths of gum tissue that can form on the gums between the teeth as a result of excess plaque, usually during the second trimester of pregnancy.
  • Don’t worry too much, although they may bleed when irritated, these are benign and harmless, and usually subside on their own after the baby is born.
• Can I receive routine or emergency dental care during my pregnancy?
  • Yes, be sure to get an examination and cleaning, but try to avoid routine dental care during the first trimester and later part of the third trimester.
  • If a dental emergency arises, be sure to let your dentist know that you are pregnant. He or she will know what precautions need to be taken to resolve your dental problem.
  • If you need cavities filled or other necessary procedures, the second trimester is the best time. Elective procedures like tooth whitening or other cosmetic work should be delayed until after the baby is delivered. 

“We know expecting mothers have a lot going on during this exciting time in their lives, making a routine trip to the dentist is one step that shouldn’t be skipped,” said Sandi Perez, Ph.D., Delta Dental of Arizona’s vice president of communications and community benefit. “There are oral health issues that have a heightened risk of occurring during pregnancy. Awareness and involving your dentist early is key to having a healthy mouth during pregnancy.” 

To learn more about dental care during pregnancy, as well as tips to protect a baby’s oral health, visit the Delta Dental of Arizona Blog.

About Delta Dental of Arizona
Delta Dental of Arizona is the leading dental benefits provider in Arizona, serving more than 892,000 enrollees and more than 3,200 contracted dentists across the state. Passionate about oral health and its importance to generations of families, Delta Dental of Arizona has worked for more than 40 years to improve oral health by emphasizing preventive care and making dental coverage accessible to a wide variety of employers, groups and individuals. For more information about Delta Dental of Arizona, visit www.deltadentalaz.com.