Your body goes through several changes during pregnancy. Something as minor as teeth cleaning can also seem like a task during this time. As an expecting parent, you may have many questions. Here is some excellent insight about oral care during pregnancy
Can oral health affect pregnancy?
Hormonal changes and medications during pregnancy can make you more susceptible to developing oral health issues. Vomiting often due to morning sickness also exposes your teeth to acid contact. This is why maintaining a good oral care routine is crucial during pregnancy. Regular dental check-ups and teeth cleaning in the initial phase of the pregnancy will help avoid complications at a later stage.
Some ailments that can be critical to your teeth during pregnancy are Pregnancy gingivitis, pyogenic granuloma, or oral tumors. The imbalance of hormones makes your gums highly vulnerable to bleeding, inflammation, and plaque deposits. It also causes a tumor-like growth in the oral cavity of many pregnant women.
Consult your family dentist as soon as you notice any such teeth issues. If treated in the early stages, gum diseases can be managed effectively with dental cleaning and improvement in oral hygiene.
Visiting the dentist during pregnancy
Inform your family dentist as soon as you know about your pregnancy. They will be able to guide you on precautionary requirements you may need to take based on your dental history or family genetic patterns.
The second trimester is considered to be the safest time to get a thorough dental check-up. Having said that, in most cases, common treatments like dental cleaning can continue during the complete pregnancy tenure. However, it is best to consult your gynecologist before scheduling a visit with your family dentist after your third trimester.
Oral surgery and long-duration dental treatments should be avoided from the middle of the third trimester as the surgery could affect the growth and development of the baby. Dental x-rays are considered to be safe for the unborn child as the amount of radiation in such cases is very low.
At-home oral hygiene
Here are a few fantastic tips that will help you maintain optimal levels of oral hygiene at home:
Brush two times a day and include an oral rinse in your care routine. You can use salt water or baking soda for the mouth rinse, especially after a bout of morning sickness. Take one tsp baking soda in one cup of water and mix it well. Use this to rinse out your mouth.
Floss daily. Keep yourself hydrated.
Limit sugary food intake. Adapt food items that are rich in calcium, such as milk, curd, and cheese, into your diet. Increase the intake of garbanzo beans, almonds, and broccoli. With any new additions to the diet, be sure to always check with your physician.
Visit the dentist every four months. Schedule thorough teeth cleaning in the second trimester, as it may be difficult for you to lie down on the dentist’s chair for a long duration as your pregnancy progresses.
Taking good care of yourself is a must during pregnancy, and oral health plays a significant role in this. Your body goes through several hormonal changes during the gestation period. Be vigilant, and take pre-emptive measures regarding your dental hygiene to have a hassle-free pregnancy!