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9 Dental Health-Related Questions You Might Have While Pregnant

9 pregnancy questions to dentist

1. Do My Daily Routines Need to Change?

Keep up the good work if you are brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning in between your teeth once a day. If not, now is the best time to start because poor habits during pregnancy have been linked to preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and unplanned childbirth. Discuss your regular oral hygiene regimen with your dentist and get their advice on how to make it better.

2. What Causes My Gums to Bleed?

Gum inflammation and bleeding, which typically occur between the second and eighth months of pregnancy, are among the many hormonal and physiological changes that occur throughout pregnancy. After the baby is born, it usually goes away on its own. Due to pregnancy hormones, your gums are more vulnerable to plaque, which can cause them to become red, sensitive, and painful. Clean between your teeth once a day, brush twice a day for two minutes each time, and discuss with your dentist how to maintain healthy gums.

3. Does Every Baby Cause You to Lose a Tooth?

No! It’s an old wives’ story. Undoubtedly, losing a tooth is not a common pregnant occurrence. You should consult your dentist if you develop dental pain because it could be connected to something other than pregnancy.

4. Morning sickness is affecting me. How Do I Proceed?

Sadly, a lot of pregnant women get morning sickness. Flushing your mouth is important to prevent stomach acids from damaging your teeth after vomiting. Although you may be tempted to grab your toothbrush at once, if you are throwing up a lot, consider rinsing your mouth with a mixture of water and 1 tsp baking soda. This will help to neutralize the acid.

5. Is Visiting the Dentist Safe While Expectant?

Indeed! throughout fact, to assist manage gum disease, your dentist could recommend additional cleanings throughout the second and early third trimesters. See your dentist if it has been more than six months since your last appointment or if you notice any changes in your mouth. Inform your dentist of any modifications to your prescription regimen or if your doctor has given you any special advice. Notifying your dentist and dental hygienist about your pregnancy is always advisable.

6. Assist! I sigh when I brush.

Go gently and figure out what works for you if anything (and possibly anything) makes you gag. It might be beneficial to switch up the toothpaste type, use a brush with a smaller head, or brush at different times of the day. You should at least rinse and spit frequently if you can’t bear to wash your teeth, and you should resume brushing as soon as you can. Maintaining your habit is crucial because you are somewhat more likely to get cavities due to corrosive acid from morning sickness, possible dietary changes, and feeling too exhausted to even think about brushing.

7. Does My Diet Have an Impact on My Baby’s Teeth?

Between the third and sixth months of pregnancy, your baby’s teeth begin to erupt, and maintaining a nutritious diet during this time can help ensure that they do so properly. Ensure that your diet contains adequate amounts of protein, calcium, phosphorus, vitamins A, C, and D, and other nutrients. Drink plenty of fluoridated water while you’re at it to maintain healthy teeth of your own.

8. Are Pregnancy-Related X-Rays Safe?

Dental X-rays are safe to have while pregnant, yes. A protective covering that restricts exposure to the abdomen will be placed over you by your dentist or hygienist. In order to protect the thyroid from radiation, your dentist office will additionally place a collar around your throat.

9. Is Getting Dental Work Done Safe?

Dental crowns and fillings are safe to have during pregnancy, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and it’s crucial to get dental care as soon as possible. If at all feasible, schedule any dental work during the first and second trimesters of your pregnancy, as sitting in a dental chair very late in the process may not be comfortable. In contrast, cosmetic operations like teeth whitening can wait till after the baby is born. Work with your dental office to determine the best course of action for you and your child in the event that you require emergency care.