Whether you just learned you are pregnant with your bundle of joy or you have been planning for their arrival for months now, you are well aware of the changes your body is going through during this time. From ankle swelling to indigestion, it is no wonder by the time nine months is up, you are ready for your little one to arrive. But it is not just your body that undergoes change, so do your teeth and gums. If you never realized how connected your pregnancy and oral health in DuPont really are, let us explain.
How is Your Oral Health Affected by Pregnancy?
If you start to think about all the nutrients you and your baby consume and ingest during pregnancy, it should come as no surprise that your teeth and gums may be affected. Think about it: Your baby is taking a lot out of you, as well as from you. When you become pregnant, you may begin to notice that your gums will bleed, or they will become tender and swollen.
Gingivitis is quite common in pregnant women because of the hormonal changes your body is going through. Luckily, this can be easily reversed with good oral habits practiced at home and frequent dental cleanings, but what you must be careful about is not letting it advance into periodontitis, also known as gum disease. This can cause complications such as low birth weight or preeclampsia.
Another factor pregnant women must be aware of is the increased chance of developing cavities or tooth decay. Again, the hormonal changes a woman goes through while pregnant often cause the saliva to become more acidic, which can cause tooth decay to develop.
What Can You Do to Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy While Pregnant?
The first thing you must do is alert your family dentist in DuPont that you are pregnant. This will enable them to take proactive steps to keep you and your baby safe throughout the pregnancy, as well as offer tips and suggestions on ways to keep your oral health in check for the next 9 months.
Some recommended tips to follow include:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day for two full minutes
- Floss your teeth at least once a day, if not after every meal
- Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to flush out any left behind particles or behind missed by brushing or flossing
- Avoid or limit sugary and overly acidic foods and beverages
- Keep your regular six-month dental checkups and cleanings
- Do not smoke
We know there are a lot of things to remember when you are pregnant, and doctors are constantly telling you what to do and what not to do. Just remember, you are growing a human inside you, and while it is of the utmost importance to ensure your baby is healthy, it is also important to make sure your oral and overall health are in the best condition possible.
About the Practice
Patients who visit our Dupont Family Dentistry office in DuPont, Washington, understand that we believe in the importance of preventive care. Whether we are treating a child or adult, our doctors and staff ensure a warm and welcoming environment that strives to ensure each patient leaves with a healthy, happy smile. For women who are pregnant, taking care of their teeth and gums are vital to maintaining good oral hygiene. This is why we will work with you to provide tips and techniques to keep your oral health in check while your little one grows bigger and bigger. To learn how we can help you, contact us at (253) 964-7000.