As we celebrate Mother’s Day this month,
We want to emphasize the importance of dental care during pregnancy. Pregnancy can bring about changes in your body that can affect your dental health, making it important to take extra care of your teeth and gums during this time.
How Pregnancy Affects Your Dental Health: During pregnancy, hormonal changes in your body can cause an increase in the number of bacteria in your mouth, leading to gum inflammation and gum disease. Pregnant women may also be at an increased risk of tooth decay due to changes in diet and oral hygiene habits.
The Importance of Dental Care During Pregnancy
Taking care of your dental health during pregnancy is crucial for both you and your baby. Here are some reasons why:
- Poor dental health during pregnancy has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
- Gum disease during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia, a serious complication that can occur during pregnancy.
- Dental procedures, such as fillings and cleanings, are safe during pregnancy and can help prevent dental problems from becoming worse.
Tips for Maintaining Good Dental Health During Pregnancy: Here are some tips to help you maintain good dental health during pregnancy:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and calcium.
- Drink plenty of water to help prevent dry mouth.
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Taking care of your dental health during pregnancy is important for both you and your baby. By maintaining good oral hygiene habits and seeking dental care when necessary, you can help prevent dental problems from occurring and promote a healthy pregnancy. Ready to learn more? Give Cochrane Valley Dental a call today!
References:
“The effects of maternal periodontal status on preterm delivery: a case-control study.” Journal of Periodontology, 2002. Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12479661
“Maternal periodontitis and preeclampsia: an epidemiologic analysis.” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2008. Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18455552