When you are expecting, you have so much to think about during your pregnancy and so much to do before that fast-approaching due date! Despite all the busyness, it’s also important to make time to care for your teeth. Being pregnant can lead to major changes in your mouth, changes that could affect the baby if left unattended.
Keep reading to learn how you can take good care of your teeth and gums while pregnant!
1) Delay Brushing Your Teeth After Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is a normal side effect of pregnancy. We know how tempting it might be to brush your teeth immediately after getting sick, but resist the urge. If you brush your teeth too early, the stomach acids could eat away at your teeth enamel.
Wait at least an hour after to brush your teeth. If you can’t stand waiting another minute, try rinsing your mouth out with a non-acidic, alcohol-free mouthwash or plain old water.
2) Floss
Pregnancy can increase your risk of developing oral health issues like gum disease, also known as gingivitis. In fact, 40% of pregnant women will develop gingivitis sometime during their pregnancy – a condition called pregnancy gingivitis.
What can you do to prevent this? Regular flossing is always essential for good dental health, but it’s even more critical when you’re expecting. Flossing once a day removes germs and food particles from in between your teeth and keeps them from turning into plaque, a substance that can cause irritated gums and eventually gum disease. Turn flossing into a daily habit and keep plaque buildup under control.
3) More Calcium
What you eat during your pregnancy not only affects your teeth, but the development of your baby’s teeth as well. That’s why it’s so important that you increase your daily intake of calcium while pregnant.
Sufficient calcium lowers your risk of osteoporosis, keeps your teeth healthy and helps your baby develop strong teeth and bones too. Good sources of calcium include milk, cheese, yogurt, spinach and almonds. If you’re struggling to get enough calcium in your diet, talk to your doctor about taking supplements.
4) Don’t Put Off Dentist Appointments
There’s no better way to keep your teeth and gums in excellent shape than visiting your dentist. They can catch problems before they become serious and recommend the best treatment. And it’s completely safe to get regular dental check-ups when pregnant and urgent dental procedures if absolutely required.
Have any questions? Our friendly and knowledgeable staff would be happy to answer them and help keep your mouth healthy during your pregnancy. Call us today at 480-331-1930!
