Taking good care of your teeth and gums is always important, but even more so when you are pregnant. Pregnancy causes many hormonal changes in your body and this, in turn, can increase your risk of developing gum disease.
Below are some tips to help you maintain good oral health before, during and after pregnancy.
Before you get pregnant –
It is always a good idea to book in for your routine check-up before becoming pregnant. This gives your dentist the chance to check on your gums and overall oral health, as well as give your teeth a professional clean. Any problems they may find can also be treated before you commence your pregnancy journey.
Dental care during pregnancy –
Tell your dentist before your appointment if you are pregnant. General dental treatment can be performed at any stage during pregnancy. Any urgent procedure can be done as well. It is best to avoid any elective treatment and dental x-rays until after the birth of your baby. If an x-ray is necessary for emergency treatment your dentist will take extreme caution to safe guard you and your baby, such as shielding your abdomen with a lead apron. Advances in technology have made x-rays much safer than in past decades.
Don’t avoid your regular dental check-up just because you are pregnant. Now, more than any other time, regular periodontal (gum) examinations are very important. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that put you at increased risk for developing periodontal disease and for tender gums that can bleed easily. The condition is called pregnancy gingivitis. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices at home with regular brushing and flossing can also help in the prevention of gingivitis.
If you are suffering from morning sickness it is still important to try and brush your teeth. Changing to a bland-tasting toothpaste and using a soft toothbrush may help. Make sure to rinse your mouth with water or mouth rinse after vomiting to remove any stomach acid from your teeth and mouth.
Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is also important for you and your baby’s oral health. Baby’s first teeth begin developing from 3 months’ gestation. Diets containing dairy products, cheese and yogurts are a good source of these essential minerals and great for your baby’s developing teeth and bones.
After Baby is Born-
Maintaining your regular dental check-ups and cleans will ensure that your gums and teeth continue to remain healthy. Any dental treatment that was postponed due to pregnancy can be commenced.
To learn more about dental care and pregnancy contact our friendly dental care Pimpama team for professional treatment and advice.