Dental Care During Pregnancy

There are too many things to do when you are experiencing a baby. While busy with pregnancy-related chores, one should keep those good dental habits on the list! The need to take good care of teeth becomes more prominent during pregnancy as it causes changes in the body, drastically enhancing the risk of gum-related diseases and cavities. Also, never forget that your baby’s teeth are developing, although they don’t erupt until several months after birth.

People have misconceptions about whether visiting a dentist during pregnancy is safe. The answer is yes; one can and should visit the dentist during pregnancy, too. In fact, all healthcare regulatory bodies across the globe encourage women to see the dentist while they are expecting. Take proper care of dental cleaning or any other dental procedure needed, such as cavity filling, well before the baby’s arrival. Seeing a dentist now will ensure you get the care necessary for dealing with pregnancy-related dental symptoms. Many dentists in Scott Road offer outstanding dental healthcare services to pregnant women, and they may consider visiting them.

How does pregnancy affect the mouth?

Generally, women don’t feel much dental discomfort during their pregnancy. Although, the changing conditions of your body while a new life is being procreated affect the response dynamics. This is true for certain conditions that are related to gums and teeth. Some women get pregnancy gingivitis, which is responsible for tender and swollen gums. Sometimes, these gums may bleed a little while flossing or brushing. During pregnancy, hormonal levels are elevated, which may cause a different gum reaction to plaque, a sticky film that builds up on the teeth. Eventually, gingivitis can cause severe other gum diseases.

As such, visiting a dentist for frequent cleaning and getting those anti-microbial mouth rinses is a good idea. During pregnancy, there is a rise in cavity risks, too. Women tend to eat more than usual during pregnancies. This extra food incentivizes the mouth’s microbes to grow further. As these bacteria increase their numbers, acid levels in the mouth rise. Eventually, it will damage enamel, a delicate protective layer on teeth.

How to protect teeth and gums while one is pregnant?

During pregnancy, brushing your teeth twice daily for a minimum of two minutes becomes more crucial than ever. You may also use floss once daily to remove food particles from the interdental region where toothbrushes don’t easily reach. As per your doctor’s recommendations, remaining hydrated by drinking enough water shall help, too. Women usually struggle to maintain their regular dental routine while expecting because they feel exhausted and stay busy. Women also find it difficult because gums become tender, and brushing them is slightly discomfort-causing. But please be motivated and remember that your baby’s health depends on your health. If you inculcate poor health habits during pregnancy, it might cause severe issues for your baby. Balanced diets, recommended medicines, remaining hydrated, taking good oral care, and visiting dentists are what you need for your and your baby’s health.  

So prioritize your oral healthcare journey while nurturing the little one. You can visit our dentists on Scott Road at New Smile Dental Clinic to discover essential dental care tips. Contact us and dive into comprehensive dental health care now.