Proper dental hygiene is always important, but “proper hygiene” during a pregnancy is different than normal dental care.
The American Dental Association (ADA) has warned that pregnant women are at a higher risk of oral diseases, than they were prior to their pregnancies. Here are a few reasons why this might be happening and what you can do to keep your teeth healthy.
Pregnant women eat more frequently and have specific food cravings, often leaning toward rich and savory foods. The increase in quality, quantity and frequency of the food and drinks in their diet can lead to cavities. Frequent, gentle brushing and flossing with a gentle floss, or water irrigation system, can keep the plaque out of your teeth and gums, reducing the chances of cavities and oral diseases.
As a pregnancy progresses, the level of the hormone progesterone increases in the blood stream and that causes increased sensitivity to plaque. This can be problematic if the expecting mother isn’t brushing regularly, as we mentioned before.
It’s important for pregnant women to know that brushing after being “physically ill” can damage their teeth and gums. The residue of morning sickness remains in the mouth, hiding in the teeth and gums. Brushing can push that acid deeper into the teeth and gums, rinsing with water and baking soda (which is a base that can neutralize the stomach acid) before brushing can make all the difference in the world.
In this exciting time, regular doctor visits are expected, be sure to meet with your dentist as well, because your current dental hygiene can set the tone for your child’s future dental hygiene. Good luck with this new chapter in your family life!
