When you’re pregnant, there’s so much to think about! In fact, the mention of adding specific dental instructions to your already overwhelming list of to do’s may just tip you over the ever-encroaching edge. However, taking care of your mouth during your pregnancy is important for you AND your baby! You’ve got to do it, so let’s make it as simple as possible.
First, continue doing what you’ve always done: regular brushing, flossing, balanced eating, and doctor visits. Keep on using toothpaste with fluoride. It strengthens your teeth while preventing decay, and it does not harm your baby. And keep on with your healthy diet, limiting sugary snacks while consuming plenty of calcium, which is good for your baby’s teeth and bones.
But truth be told, everything is not same-o. Our bodies and hormones change during pregnancy, so here are tips for the 3 G’s you may run up against:
Gagging
Help! I’m gagging every time I try to brush my teeth!
Don’t stop brushing!
- Try using a soft small-headed, child size toothbrush.
- Focus on your breathing.
- Brush later in the morning when we are less apt to gag.
- Don’t use toothpaste. (Smear some on your teeth when you are done and don’t rinse.)
Gum disease
Help! My gums are red, puffy, and tender!
This is common, but be careful!
- Attend regular check ups to keep your mouth healthy and lessen your chance of getting gum disease.
- Brush and floss carefully to prevent plaque build up which leads to gum disease.
- Ask your dentist about using a microbial mouthwash to reduce gum disease-causing bacteria.
- Inform your doctor of any concerns. Delay in treatment of gum disease can lead to preterm and low birth weight delivery.
Germs
Help! I’m worried I’m ruining my teeth each time I vomit!
The acid ridden germs in vomit can cause dental erosion and tooth decay, but there are things you can do!
- Rinse mouth with water (and sometimes a teaspoon of baking soda).
- Wait 30 minutes to brush, allowing enamel time to recover from the vomit-induced acid attack.
- Attend regular dental check ups to keep your mouth healthy.
Keep in mind that babies are born with no germs (decay-causing bacteria) in their mouths. Decay-causing bacteria is passed from parents and caretakers when spoons are shared, etc., so if you keep your teeth and mouth healthy, you will lower the amount of bacteria passed to your baby.
Our oral health habits continue to directly impact our babies, during pregnancy and beyond. Taking care of our mouths and teeth while pregnant is so important that it should be as routine as an ultrasound. Remember that oral health is part of your overall health, so incorporate oral health care into your routine prenatal care today! Call us right away to set up a regular cleaning and maintenance check up! Herald Square Dental Phone Number (212) 689-0024