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When you’re pregnant, you know how important it is to take special
care of your body. However, you should also know that pregnancy is a time
to take extra special care of your teeth and gums. That’s because
hormonal changes in your body during pregnancy can increase your chances
of developing gum disease.
So while you are pregnant, make sure you practice good oral hygiene, which
means brushing and flossing every day. By combining this routine with
a healthy, balanced diet and regular dental visits, you will not only
help avoid dental problems of your own, you will also contribute to the
healthy development of your baby.
How does pregnancy affect my teeth and gums?
Pregnancy causes hormonal fluctuations that increase your risk
for gum disease. The changing hormone levels in your body can make your
gums more sensitive to harmful plaque—the colorless, sticky film
of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. Furthermore, if you already
have signs of gum disease, being pregnant may make it worse. This is why
it’s vital to pay more careful attention to your daily brushing
and flossing routine to keep plaque under control.
How does gum disease develop?
Plaque is one of the main causes of gum disease. If plaque is
not removed by daily brushing and flossing, it will accumulate on the
teeth and below the gumline, which can lead to gingivitis— the first
stage of gum disease. If ignored, gingivitis can progress to a more serious
form of gum disease called periodontitis, in which the gums and bones
that support your teeth and keep them in place are permanently damaged.
How do I know if I have gum disease?
As many as 70% of women have some form of gum disease during pregnancy,
so watch out for these warning signs:
Your gums are tender, swollen, or red Your gums bleed when you brush or
floss
You can’t get rid of bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
If you think you might have gum disease, visit your dentist or hygienist
right away for a professional cleaning and exam: if caught early enough,
gum disease can usually be reversed or controlled.
Am I also at a greater risk for tooth decay?
Yes. Sugary food cravings and morning sickness may make you
more vulnerable to developing cavities.
How can I avoid tooth decay and gum disease?
Simple: get into the habit of cleaning your teeth properly every day
and visiting your dentist regularly.
Brush thoroughly at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and before
bed.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a good quality power toothbrush—look
for modern designs that are safe and gentle to use. Many incorpor advanced
technolog that allows them to remove plaque more effectively than ordinary
manual toothbrushes.
Take your time. You should spend at least two minutes brushing to remove
the plaque that is constantly forming on your teeth. Use toothpaste that
contains fluoride. Fluoride is proven to help prevent cavities.
Clean between teeth daily. Use floss or other interdental cleaners to
remove plaque from areas that your toothbrush can’t reach. Did you
know, if you don’t floss, you’re leaving up to 40% of your
tooth surfaces untouched and uncleaned?
Should I tell my dentist that I’m pregnant?
As soon as you believe that you are pregnant, tell your dentist
because it may not be safe to have x-rays during pregnancy. You should
also let your dentist know if you are trying to get pregnant: knowing
this can help in planning x-rays or other treatments.
Tell your dentist what medicines you are taking and if your physician
has given you any specific medical advice, as it may affect the treatment
given.
What should I know about my diet?
Your body is the sole source of nourishment for your unborn
child. Check with your physician as he or she is the best source for detailed
information on what to eat while you are pregnant. In general, however,
you should try to eat more foods that are rich in calcium—these
are especially good for developing teeth and bones.
When do my baby’s teeth start developing?
Your baby’s first teeth will begin to develop about three
months into your pregnancy. And the healthier your diet is, the greater
the likelihood that your baby’s teeth and gums will be healthy,
too.
How should I care for my infant’s teeth and gums?
Even before your baby’s teeth appear, it’s a good idea to
start caring for them.
After feeding your baby, use a damp washcloth or piece of gauze to wipe
the gums—this will remove any plaque that has formed. Ask your dentist,
hygienist, or pediatrician to show you the best way to do this.
Once teeth appear, brush after feeding with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
What is “baby bottle tooth decay?”
If a baby is put to bed with a bottle containing milk (even
breast milk), formula, or juice, the sugar in the drink and the bacteria
in your baby’s mouth can interact to form an acid that attacks the
enamel in your baby’s teeth and may cause tooth decay. Fortunately,
this is easy to prevent; if your baby needs a bedtime bottle, fill it
with water instead.
When should I first take my baby to the dentist?
Try to schedule your child’s first dental visit sometime between
the eruption of the first tooth and one year of age. At this time, the
dentist will check your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw for any problems
and show you the right way to clean and care for your child’s teeth.
A time to be healthy and happy!
As a mother-to-be, what you do to take care of your health (including
your diet) affects the development of your baby’s teeth and gums.
And as your body goes through a process of change, it is also important
to pay particular attention to your own oral hygiene. Maintaining a good
daily oral hygiene routine can help keep potential problems from developing.
Don’t forget that this is a time in your life to enjoy the natural
changes that take place in your body so radiate health and vitality by
keeping your smile bright!
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