The Importance of Seeing Your Dentist During Pregnancy
Just as you have doctor visits for prenatal checkups, it’s also important to visit your dentist for prenatal dental care. Your dentist can help discuss changes in oral health during pregnancy and what to look for. There is a connection between your health during pregnancy and your baby’s health, so visiting your dentist during pregnancy is essential.
Your Teeth: What to Expect When Pregnant
During pregnancy, the changing hormone levels can leave your mouth more vulnerable to bacteria and plaque, both of which create tender gums during pregnancy. This can put you at greater risk for tooth decay and gum disease.
Here are a few dental issues to monitor during pregnancy:
- Gum inflammation is more likely to occur during the second trimester. Your gums may be swollen, tender, and may bleed a little during brushing and flossing.
- Plaque buildup during pregnancy is common, but brushing and flossing regularly can help
- Although pregnancy does not cause periodontal disease, pregnancy can exacerbate this condition, which can result from untreated gingivitis.
- Pregnancy tumors are overgrowth’s of tissue appear that on the gums, most often during the second trimester. They are non-cancerous growths believed to be related to excess plaque. They may bleed easily and will usually disappear after the baby is born.
Dental Hygiene during Pregnancy
Here are daily dental hygiene some tips to keep in mind while you’re pregnant:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss gently once a day.
- Visit your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning and check-up.
- Ask your dentist about an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help combat the increase of plaque.
- If you have morning sickness and vomiting, rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water. This will help keep stomach acids from attacking your teeth and causing decay.
- Eat a diet rich with calcium, B12 and vitamin C to help keep gums healthy.
