Dental Care Tips During Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, best practice a great family dental care. Here are some dental care tips for you and your baby.

The Basics. Make sure to practice basic dental care such as brush at least twice a day and use floss for healthy gums and teeth.  Spit excess toothpaste so that the fluoride will work better.

Photo from google

Let her know. Tell your dentist if you are pregnant.  The first trimester and second half of the third trimester, critical times when the baby is growing, are times when you should lessen your visits to the dental office.  Schedule an appointment to the dental clinic only because of emergencies, such as bleeding gums. Other light treatment for gum disease can be done after the delivery.

Visiting the dental office. If you have a scheduled dental care treatment, plan it on the second semester. Your routinary dental visits should not change just because you are pregnant. Having healthy gums and teeth are important as pregnancy often escalates risk for periodontal disease such as pregnancy gingivitis.

X-ray warning. With today’s technology, x-rays are safer than in the past, however it is best still to avoid dental x-rays during pregnancy.  If an emergency dental procedure calls for x-ray, your dentist will use great precaution if you told her that you are pregnant. 

Photo from google

Morning sickness. If you are experiencing pregnancy sickness, side-step brushing as this oral hygiene practice can easily wear away the  top surface of your enamel. Opt for a bland-tasting toothpaste if morning sickness is making you gag and is stopping you from brushing.  Ask your dentist for referred brands.

Hormonal change. Pregnancy triggers hormonal change in your body. One specific part that it affects are your gums, and this builds up the risk of developing periodontal gum disease.

         Photo from google

Avoid too much sugar. Cravings are natural when you are pregnant, however curb your sweet diet as this may cause tooth decay, especially for you who is pregnant and is more prone to periodontal diseases.

Eat healthy. This is not only for you, but also for the baby growing inside of you.  About three months in to pregnancy, your baby’s teeth start to develop. Make sure to eat dairy food such as cheese and yogurt.

Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best Torrance dentists. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com