Oral Health During Pregnancy
If you’re pregnant you’ve probably assembled a team of experts to help you on your journey.
OB-GYN? Check.
Birthing coach? Check.
Lactation specialist? Check.
Dentist?
Dentist?!?
Your baby bump and the countless changes going on inside it tend to get all the attention. And with all the prenatal appointments and preparations going on, your teeth are probably the last things on your mind. But if you want the best outcome for both you and your baby, make sure an oral health specialist is on your pregnancy team.
The reasons might surprise you.
Hormones and Your Gums
During your pregnancy you’ll experience hormonal changes that affect your mood, your digestion, your posture and even your gums.
Research suggests a connection between gum disease in pregnant women and premature or low birth weight babies. Estimates indicate that close to 20% of premature births may be triggered by the mother’s periodontal disease. Premature births can produce a variety of health risks for the baby. These include problems with hearing and eyesight to cerebral palsy.
Inflammation of gum tissue can have whole body effects. Make sure you get appropriate dental care during your pregnancy.
Dental Care During Pregnancy Is Safe
One of many misconceptions about pregnancy is that you shouldn’t see a dentist because dental care is unsafe. Not true. Dental care during pregnancy is safe. So that shouldn’t stop you from getting your routine teeth cleaning or checking out any other oral health issues.
Your dentist can spot potential problems before they become serious issues and offer up tips to avoid pregnancy gingivitis.
Morning Sickness and Your Teeth
About half of pregnant women experience morning sickness during the first trimester of pregnancy. When you’re in the grips of morning nausea, the last thing you’re probably thinking about are your teeth. But you should.
When you vomit you expose your teeth to strong stomach acids. Stomach acid weakens the enamel on your teeth.
Afterwards, it’s tempting to brush your teeth to restore freshness to your teeth and gums. But brushing doesn’t remove the acid. It simply spreads it around. Instead add a tablespoon of baking soda to some water and swish it around in your mouth. This will help neutrali[z]e the acid. Then brush your teeth.
Put Us On Your Team
Your health affects your baby’s health. Attending to your oral health is good for you and your baby. Proper hygiene now is more important than ever. Arrange a checkup. We want to help support you during and after your pregnancy.