Pregnancy can be a beautiful time in a woman’s life, but it can also bring strain on your teeth and gums. In this article, about how to take care of your teeth during pregnancy.
Research has found a link between severe gum disease in pregnancy and premature birth with low birth weight. Babies born prematurely can have a risk of brain injury and problems with eyesight and hearing
You are less likely to have dental issues if you brush your teeth at least twice a day, use floss or interdental brushes and have a healthy diet low in processed sugars . Regular visits, usually every 6 months, are important so your dentist can detect any potential issue developing.
There are several reasons why teeth and gums become more prone to damage during pregnancy. One is the acidic environment from Acid Reflux or often vomiting also known as “’morning sickness”. Enamel can get damaged, dissolved if you will from repeated reflux and increase the risk of decay. It becomes extremely important to ensure your oral hygiene is thorough and you use a fluoridated toothpaste. In some cases a prescription paste will be indicated. Empower your dental routine!
Another factor are hormonal changes which can make your gums more reactive to plaque and easier to bleed therefore, the more you control your plaque removal the more you can minimize these risks. Be mindful that constant snacking will call for constant plaque removal .
You shouldn’t brush right after vomiting when your enamel is the softest, rather, rinse your mouth with plain tap water and follow up with a mouthwash containing fluoride. A good over the counter rinse is ACT . You can resume brushing one hour later as the enamel uses minerals in the saliva to re-strengthen itself.
Cravings for sugary foods is a common one. Use your judgment in weighing the pros and cons of its consumption. Replace them with fresh fruit or nuts high in fiber.
Gagging while brushing can prevent you from doing a good job removing plaque. Try a pediatric brush to remove plaque from teeth in the back of your mouth, go slow, take your time and distract your mind while you do, perhaps you can listen to music or practice breathing
Dental Radiographs, although a great help in diagnosing hidden caries, we recommend to limit the amount of radiographs taken during the first and second trimester of your pregnancy when the baby is forming. Third trimester is safer, however, if you must take a limited amount of radiographs for your dentist to diagnose, it is recommended to use a double lead apron to protect you from damaging rays.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy during pregnancy, more importantly report any problem you may have for professional help.
Conclusion: Pregnancy is a magical journey, and your smile deserves the best care. Combat dental challenges with a proactive approach ensuring not just your well-being but also your baby’s future joy. Let’s embark on this dental adventure together at Live Oak Family Dental Care! 😁