Pregnancy can change your body in so many different ways that it’s hard to keep track! One factor that you may not be thinking about is how your oral health is impacted by the hormonal changes, morning sickness, snacking, and other lifestyle shifts that will take place while you’re pregnant. Read on to learn how pregnancy can impact not only the health of your teeth and gums, but also your bun in the oven!
Unique Oral Health Risks While Pregnant
One of the most common dental health risks for pregnant parents is what dentists call pregnancy gingivitis. This is a type of early-stage gum disease that causes sore, swollen and bleeding gums due to hormonal changes. The good news is that, despite it being a common occurrence among those who are pregnant, it is preventable if you practice good oral hygiene habits.
Additionally, changes in your diet due to cravings, as well as morning sickness, can also impact your oral health. When sustained for long periods of time, these habits can lead to enamel erosion and plaque and tartar accumulation, which can put you at an increased risk of developing cavities and gum disease while you’re pregnant.
Tips for Keeping Your Oral Health in the Green
The good news is that there’s nothing special you need to do for your oral hygiene routine to maintain a healthy smile while you’re pregnant. Just remember to follow these important, standard practices as recommended by the American Dental Association:
- Visit your dentist every six months for routine dental cleanings and exams.
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss between each of your teeth at least once a day.
- Limit snacking throughout the day to the best of your ability, focusing on eating more substantial meals in one sitting.
- Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash once a day.
How Can Dental Problems Impact Your Baby?
It may surprise you to hear that you’re not just brushing for yourself anymore—you’re brushing for two! Even though your baby isn’t born yet, oral health problems like gum disease can still have an impact on them. Gum disease has been shown to increase the risk of premature birth, and dental infections can be carried onto your newborn when left unchecked and untreated. By taking preventive measures now, not only can you reduce the risk of pregnancy complications, but you can also help your baby’s newly developing smile start off on the right track as well.
Once your baby’s first tooth emerges, or earlier if you’d prefer, you can take them to a pediatric dentist in Hinsdale to get them acquainted with visiting the dentist, too. Forming this relationship early on will help them feel comfortable going to the dental office as they get older. Your pediatric dentist can also provide you with helpful tips and tricks on how to maintain their oral health as new teeth grow in!
About the Practice
At Brush Pediatric Dentistry, our team is led by five Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist, many of whom are parents themselves! They’re passionate about collaborating with parents to form good oral hygiene routines for their children as well as providing fear-free, positive dental experiences for kids of all ages, from infants to teens. To learn more about the services offered by pediatric dentists, visit Brush Pediatric Dentistry’s website or call 630-504-2223.