How Being Pregnant CAN Affect your Dental Health
Congratulations on this exciting and busy time in your life! There is so much to think about during pregnancy but don’t forget about your teeth and gums. Yes, you will not want to brush or floss your teeth sometimes but you still have to. Brushing and flossing contributes to your overall health and if your mouth is healthy, it’s more likely that your baby’s mouth will be healthy also! All the changing hormone levels that occur with pregnancy can actually make some dental problems WORSE!
It is very important to continue to see your dentist and dental hygienist regularly during pregnancy. We suggest you come in to get your teeth cleaned EVERY 3 MONTHS for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning! Good daily care is vital. That means always brushing your teeth twice a day with FLOURIDE toothpaste (such as Colgate or Crest Cavity Protection), cleaning between your teeth once a day, a.k.a FLOSS, and eating a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks. Make sure you are drinking a lot of water if you are snacking during the day. If you are snacking here are some helpful hints on what to snack on:
· Raw fruit
· Raw vegetables
· Yogurt
· Cheese
Morning sickness can lead to dental problems. How you ask? When you get sick what is the first thing that you do? Brush your teeth? Rinse? Do nothing? If you picked Rinse, you are doing it right! Brushing just spreads the acid that has entered the mouth around and can actually cause more harm than good. If you can, rinse then wait about 15 minutes and then brush. It will save you money and time in the future.
Now more than ever, it is very important to have a well-balanced diet. That’s because what you eat during your pregnancy affects the development of your baby, including their teeth! A baby’s teeth begin to develop between the third and sixth months of pregnancy. A sufficient quantity of nutrients—especially vitamins A, C and D, protein, calcium and phosphorous—are needed. Check with your OBGYN to make sure your diet is right for you.
Being a new mom-to-be is scary, I know. As one I have had a lot of concerns, even working in a dental office. Will I get gingivitis? What medications can I take or not take? Are dental x-rays dangerous? These are all NORMAL questions that we all have and I have the answers for you.
Gingivitis
Your mouth can be affected by the hormonal changes you will experience during pregnancy. Some women can develop a condition known as “pregnancy gingivitis,” an inflammation of the gums that can cause swelling and tenderness. Your gums will also bleed a little when you brush or floss. Left untreated, gingivitis can lead to a more serious form of gum disease. This is why we suggest that you come see us every three months during your pregnancy.
Medications
Some medications can be used during and after dental treatment to make you more comfortable. Inform us of ANY prescription or over the counter drugs you are taking, at all times. Always check with your physician and determine the drugs—such as painkillers or antibiotics—you may safely take while pregnant. Discuss any concerns with Dr. Hubbs and your physician. Both are concerned about you and your baby.
X-rays
It’s possible you’ll need an x-ray if you suffer a dental emergency or need a dental problem diagnosed. Although, radiation from dental x-rays is extremely low, we will cover you with a leaded apron; make that 2, leaded aprons that minimizes exposure to the abdomen. We will also cover your throat with a leaded thyroid collar to protect the thyroid from radiation.
Being pregnant comes with many responsibilities—and oral hygiene is no exception. Routine dental visits are safe during pregnancy for most women, but let your dental office know what month you are in when you make your appointment. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or you have some other medical condition, your dent and your physician may recommend that treatment be postponed. Be sure to let your dentist know if there is any change in the medications you take or if you have received any special advice from your physician. The benefits of receiving dental care during pregnancy far outweigh potential risks. Be sure to keep your dentist informed of any changes in your mouth such as swelling, redness or bleeding.
Remember these tips for maintaining a healthy mouth during pregnancy:
· Brush thoroughly with fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
· Floss between your teeth daily.
· Use a soft bristle tooth brush (even a smaller child size works well while pregnant)
· Eat a balanced diet. If you snack, do so in moderation and make sure water is near.
· Visit your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning and check-up.
· If you need help controlling plaque, it is important to let us know and come in more often.
· If you have morning sickness and are vomiting frequently, try rinsing with water before brushing. If possible, avoid tooth brushing directly after vomiting when stomach acids repeatedly come into contact with teeth, the effects of erosion can eventually cause tooth enamel to wear away.
Test your pregnancy dental IQ here: http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/pregnancy/fact-or-fiction.aspx
I hope this will inform you like it has me during my pregnancy.
Marguerite, R.D.A
Life Style Dentistry
Dr. Ann Hubbs
479-636-8700
