Caring for Your Teeth During Pregnancy
Tips For Dental Care While Pregnant
Congratulations on your pregnancy! During this beautiful and life-changing time, there are a lot of things you need to pay attention to. One of them is your oral health, which is closely linked to your overall health as well as the health of your baby. Although you may be going through many changes, taking care of your teeth is essential to prevent dental problems that can affect your pregnancy.
In this blog post, the Fairfield Dental Arts team discusses tips on caring for your teeth during pregnancy to keep you smiling brightly.
1. Brush and Floss Regularly
It’s more important than ever to keep your teeth and gums healthy during pregnancy. To prevent plaque buildup, brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, especially after meals and before bedtime. Flossing is also a must. Use a soft-bristled brush to avoid irritating your gums, and avoid using mouthwash that contains alcohol. This will keep your mouth fresh and clean.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet
Healthy eating during pregnancy is essential for your baby’s development, but it’s also beneficial for your own oral health. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks because they can cause tooth decay. Instead, choose foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Drinking milk and eating cheese are excellent sources of calcium, which helps strengthen teeth.
3. Visit the Dentist Regularly
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential during pregnancy. Notify your dentist about your pregnancy so they can take extra precautions when necessary. Avoid dental X-rays unless absolutely necessary, and postpone elective dental treatments, including teeth whitening. Don’t wait to seek treatment if you experience any dental problems such as gingivitis or cavity.
4. Manage Your Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms, which can cause stomach acid to come up and damage your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water after vomiting to remove the acid from your mouth. You can also gargle with a mixture of water and baking soda, which helps neutralize the acid. Chewing sugar-free gum can also stimulate the production of saliva, which helps protect your teeth.
5. Be Mindful of Teeth Grinding
Many women experience stress and anxiety during pregnancy, which can cause teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. If you experience this problem, talk to your dentist about wearing a mouthguard at night to cushion your teeth and jaw.
Contact Fairfield Dental Arts to schedule your dental cleaning and check-up appointment!
If you are worried about your teeth, need a cleaning, or are experiencing any dental problems, give Fairfield Dental Arts a call at (203) 254-3780. We are your family’s dentist and proudly provide expert oral care for people of all ages!