You are waiting to hold the little bundle of joy in your hands. You want to welcome your baby with a healthy grin, but wait, are you taking care of your dental health?
If you are developing cavities or have swollen gums during pregnancy, it’s time to get serious about your oral health.
The last thing you want is pain and discomfort because of cavities and gum diseases when developing a bond with the baby.
Becoming a mom is lovely, but it’s a huge responsibility. Soon, you’ll find yourself putting yourself last and thinking non-stop about your child’s well-being. It’s natural, but always remember yourself in the process. And that starts with self-care!
Read on for more information.
#1. Visit The Dentist
Visiting a dentist during pregnancy could be the last thing on your mind. However, it’s time to make it a priority. The dentist knows what’s best for your oral health and can guide you in the right direction.
What works for one person may not work for the other; the same goes for pregnant women. If your mom, aunt, or friend had excellent oral health during pregnancy, it doesn’t mean you would be fine too! You can expect the best, but it’s best to be on the safe side. Visiting a dentist means avoiding possible cavities and gum diseases if you spot them early.
#2. Brush Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth is a must. You must brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes. Find a fluoride toothpaste that’s safe for pregnant women. You can also ask your dentist to recommend suitable toothpaste, especially if you don’t like the flavor. Also, find a toothbrush that’s suitable for your oral health. There is a variety, but you can look into bamboo toothbrushes as these are environmentally friendly.
A lot is going to change during pregnancy. You may even notice a change in your dental health. So, it’s best not to take any chances. The acidity in your mouth may increase due to vomiting, so it would be best to discuss with the dentist how to manage oral health if you have severe morning sickness.
#3. Use Floss
If you haven’t used floss before, now is the best time to introduce it to your routine. You can also look into water floss, as cleaning plaque with water pressure is easy. Your dentist can also suggest what type of floss suits you. If you are lucky, you can get free samples from the dentist’s office.
When you floss, it’s easy to keep your mouth free from plaque and bacteria. The build-up of plaque and bacteria in the mouth can lead to cavities and gum diseases. So, when a toothbrush can’t reach your teeth’ corners, floss would be the best!
#4. Consider Regular Cleanings
Even though you may brush your teeth and floss, opting for regular cleanings during pregnancy is still wise. When you consider professional cleaning, it gives you an extra boost, and your mouth will be squeaky clean.
So, when you are mindful of your health and understand the importance of dental care, you can book an appointment for professional cleaning with your dentist. However, during the appointment, let your dentist know about the pregnancy.
#5. Watch Out for Gum Diseases
Pregnancy can take a toll on your gums and may cause gingivitis. During pregnancy, 60% to 75% of women have gingivitis. So, you need to watch out for gum diseases. During this time, the best solution is to be extra mindful of your oral health. You should talk to your dentist if your gums are sore, red, or swollen.
Pregnancy hormones can change your oral health. If you had healthy gums and teeth, it could change during the trimesters. So, bear that in mind and keep your oral health in check.
#6. Take Your Vitamins
Your doctor will advise you to take prenatal vitamins. You must have a balanced diet, but it’s best to listen to your doctor and take supplements and vitamins necessary for your and your child’s well-being.
The doctor may recommend increasing the calcium intake. The growing baby takes nutrients from your body, so listen to your healthcare providers.
#7. Maintain Your Health
Bringing a child into this world is a miracle, but some women forget they are also individuals. Being a mom becomes your only identity, and it’s understandable. However, it doesn’t mean neglecting yourself.
You can take the best care of your child when your health is in check. So, to maintain your overall well-being, you need to focus on dental care. If you develop cavities or gum diseases by being neglectful during pregnancy, it can affect you later and even during pregnancy.
Wrapping It Up
Talk to your dentist about your oral health during pregnancy. Consider the treatment options if you have cavities or gum diseases during this time. Your dentist knows what works best for you and can give you the best solution.
