A woman has a lot on her mind during pregnancy. For the sake of their unborn child as well as themselves, pregnant women should not neglect their dental health. Tell your dentist if you are expecting, even though the majority of common dental procedures are safe to have during pregnancy. However, some medications and treatments should be avoided during the first three months of pregnancy.
1. Take care of your teeth if you have morning sickness: Some pregnant women have morning sickness, which can include acid reflux or vomiting. There are a number of strategies to reduce the risk of tooth erosion caused by the acid produced by reflux or vomiting. After experiencing morning sickness, make sure to thoroughly brush your teeth. If you’re not at home and don’t have your toothbrush, chew some sugar-free gum or immediately rinse your mouth out with water before brushing when you get home.
2. Maintain the health of your teeth and gums: Gum disease can harm both your and your unborn child’s health. Research has connected low birth weight and premature birth to poor dental health in mothers. Healthy gums can also lessen the amount of bacteria that is transferred to your unborn child.
3. Keep an eye out for changes in your oral health: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can alter your body in a variety of ways. Gums that are swollen, red, bleeding, or have foul breath are warning signs of gum disease. See your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms while pregnant.
4. Give up smoking! Products made from tobacco are bad for everyone’s health! Both you and your unborn child suffer when you smoke during pregnancy. Gum disease is one of the many illnesses that tobacco use can cause. You both benefit from quitting because it impacts you both!
5. During your pregnancy, see your dentist. To keep teeth and gums healthy during pregnancy, professional cleanings are necessary. Make sure to inform your dentist of your pregnancy and any medications or prenatal vitamins you are taking when you make an appointment in the second trimester.
Here are some more pointers to remember during your pregnancy:
● Try a milder flavor or a different brand of toothpaste if your current one is making you sick.
● During pregnancy, make sure to thoroughly brush both your front and back teeth. Make it a point to brush the teeth and biting surfaces to avoid dental caries (decay), as well as the gum line to avoid gingivitis.
● During pregnancy, your eating habits and diet will most likely change! Don’t forget to modify your at-home dental care regimen. To lower your risk of cavities, brush your teeth again after a midnight snack.
● Make sure to rinse with fluoride mouthwash after brushing and flossing.