Congratulations! Pregnancy is a joyous time that calls for celebration. Though the dentist’s office may be the last place you are thinking of, dental care is essential during pregnancy. Oral health and general wellness are interlinked, and one can affect the other. Here, we will make sure you have all the information you need to get started on taking care of your mouth, teeth, and gums during this exciting time!
Many hormonal changes occur during pregnancy, leaving women susceptible to cavities, gingivitis, and benign growths called pyogenic granulomas. Fortunately, pyogenic granulomas often leave after the woman gives birth. In addition, pregnancy cravings may lead to excessive sugar consumption, giving bacteria something to feast on. The bacteria can be passed on to the baby, making oral care extremely important during this period. In fact, poor dental health has been linked to some premature births and low birth weights.
One of the most important ways to preserve your oral health during pregnancy is to diligently brush at least twice a day and floss once. In addition, diet plays a large role in oral health, especially during pregnancy. Foods that are rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals are effective at strengthening your teeth while benefiting your baby. Vitamin C, B12, and calcium also significantly increase gum health.
Some oral care products are more effective than others. For example, Gardena Dental Care recommends using an electric toothbrush because it often catches more plaque than a manual toothbrush. Also, using toothpaste with fluoride in it will help protect against cavities and dental issues like gingivitis.
Morning sickness is a common occurrence in pregnancy. However, it can contribute to acidity in your mouth that erodes tooth enamel and causes cavities. If you suffer from morning sickness and nausea, Gardena Dental Care recommends first rinsing out your mouth using a teaspoon of baking soda stirred into a cup of warm water. This can help neutralize stomach acids that would otherwise begin eroding teeth. Afterward, you can brush your teeth using regular toothpaste.
It is important for pregnant women to keep up with routine dental exams and cleanings. With regular appointments at Gardena Dental Care and a diligent at-home oral care routine, you can protect your oral health. Annual dental exams and two dental cleanings per year are often enough to maintain your oral health. In addition, pregnant women can still receive digital x-rays at our dental office, with a limit of up to four per visit. However, we will still provide you with a protective apron for maximum protection!
You can ensure your mouth, teeth, and gums are healthy during pregnancy at no additional cost! Some dental insurances may even cover dental exams and teeth cleanings completely. If you are unsure of your dental benefits or have questions regarding dental care during pregnancy, we can help you when you call our friendly California office today!
Are You Ready to Optimize Your Oral Health During Pregnancy?
If you are pregnant, the Gardena Dental Care staff congratulates you! Our office is located in Gardena, CA, and we can help you optimize your oral health during this joyous time. Get started today by contacting us or calling (424) 295-7885!
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