Protecting Your Oral Health During Pregnancy
Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that can boost the risk of developing gum disease and other dental issues. This is why it’s important to give your oral health some extra attention while experiencing this exciting milestone! To protect you and your developing baby’s health, we’ve gathered some tips on properly caring for your mouth during this time.
Control Your Morning Sickness
Lots of women experience morning sickness and vomiting during the first three months of pregnancy. The acidity from this can have terrible effects on your enamel. It’s important to make the effort to reduce nausea by drinking soothing ginger teas or ask your doctor for advice tailored to your specific needs. If you do need to throw up, it’s crucial that you rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and baking soda afterwards to neutralise the acid before it damages your teeth.
Be Cautious Of Gum Disease
Pregnancy hormones raise the risk of gum disease. To help lower your chances of developing this condition, keep your teeth clean and attend regular check ups. Additionally, it’s important to look out for symptoms such as bleeding gums and consult a dentist if your gums are showing any sign of poor health.
Keep Up Regular Hygiene Routines
Pregnancy can be quite tiring, so it’s easy to fall out of regular routines and patterns. Although it can feel exhausting, it’s important to stay vigilant about your dental health. Brushing and flossing everyday will remove plaque from your teeth and help tremendously.
Be Careful About Dental Treatments
Although making regular appointments with your dentist is extremely important during pregnancy, you should also remain cautious about which dental treatments you recieve. Cosmetic dental work should ideally be carried out during the second trimester. However don’t hesitate to come in for any emergency dental work at any time!
If you’re still unsure about how to properly protect your oral health during a pregnancy or have any unanswered questions, it may be a good idea to book a visit with your dentist!
