Dental Health During Pregnancy

Aside from checkups, ultrasounds, and lab tests, pregnant women should also make sure not to miss their regular dental appointments. After all, being pregnant increases your risk of oral health problems. Remember, it’s part of your overall wellness, so you should take extra care of your mouth, gums, and teeth during this time.

Don’t worry; routine dental visits are safe for most moms-to-be. The same goes for procedures like x-rays, tooth extractions, and fillings.

This article will discuss everything you need to know about keeping your teeth healthy and how it plays a crucial part in prenatal care.

Common Oral Health Problems During Pregnancy

Pregnant women typically have high progesterone levels, which encourage bacterial growth around the teeth and gums. For this reason, they become more prone to the conditions mentioned below.

• Gingivitis: Approximately 60 to 75% of pregnant women have gingivitis, and untreated incidents may lead to periodontal disease. A periodontitis study shows that extreme forms of gum disease may cause premature labor and low-birth-weight infants.

• Cavities: Being an expectant mother makes you more prone to cavities — permanently damaged areas in teeth holes. You can pass the cavity-causing bacteria to your baby during this time and even after you give birth.

• Loose teeth: High estrogen levels during pregnancy can make teeth loose. In extreme cases, the teeth can fall off without professional dental care.

Dental Health Care Tips for Pregnant Women

Being pregnant is a sensitive time for moms and babies alike, so we recommend taking extra precautions with your dental health care during this time. Below are some dentist-approved tips to keep your oral health in excellent shape during pregnancy.

• Brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day — ideally once in the morning and before you sleep — with fluoride toothpaste.

• Floss between your teeth after your nightly brush.

• Rinse your mouth with antimicrobial rinse at night after brushing and flossing.

• Choose American Dental Association (ADA)-approved products for your teeth.

• Observe a healthy diet with minimal sugar intake.

• If you have morning sickness, mix some baking soda into a cup of water and rinse your mouth with it. This process stops stomach acid from attacking your teeth.

• Don’t skip your bi-annual dentist appointment.

Visit a Reliable Bowie, MD Dentist Today

The spike in your hormones as you’re pregnant makes you more prone to particular dental health problems like gingivitis, cavities, and loose teeth. The best way to fight these conditions is to observe the best oral care practices and consult your dentist on your regular bi-monthly visit.

Remember, you need to maintain your overall health during this time, which includes your mouth, teeth, and gums. Ignoring it can lead to catastrophic consequences for your body and may even affect your child.

If you’re looking for a trusted Bowie, MD dentist to guide you on your oral health journey as an expectant mom, book an appointment with Abiodun Adesanya, D.D.S., P.C. now via (301) 464 1800.