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There are many factors to consider when it comes to oral hygiene and pregnancy. When you are brushing for two, there is an increased risk of developing gum and dental issues due to fluctuating hormones and of course morning sickness. Keep your gums healthy and prevent any cavities from developing by taking extra steps in your dental care routine to avoid these things from happening.

Taking these extra precautions will not only keep your mouth and baby safe, but it can also minimize your risk of needing additional surgery such as a sinus augmentation graft. If you have not already spoken to your dentist, here are a few essential tips on how to eliminate any dental risks while pregnant.

Do not Skip your Appointment

If you have a pre-scheduled appointment with your oral hygienist or dentist like https://www.northendsmiles.com/, it is vital to show up still regardless of how far along you are in your pregnancy. Regular checkups can significantly reduce the risk of developing any severe dental problems. In cases where there are a few issues, your dentist can pick them up and address them before they do develop into a significant problem. If you are not sure which dentist to go to, start by looking in your local area for dentists, for example, search for dentist Hammersmith if that is where you live.

If you are a bit nervous about the appointment or procedure, talk to your obstetrician beforehand to find out if there are any special precautions or instructions you need to follow. Additionally, it is also important to disclose your pregnancy and any prenatal vitamins or medications you are taking so that your dentist can adjust your treatment plan and prevent inflicting any injury to your unborn child.

Dealing with Morning Sickness

Morning sickness can leave you feeling wiped and exhausted. However, as tired as you may feel, the acidic bile from the morning sickness can eat straight through your tooth enamel and leave your gums feeling a little bit worse for wear. If you experience frequent nausea or vomiting, be sure to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth each time you have gotten sick. If the toothpaste is the main culprit behind your morning sickness, try switching to a bland-tasting paste. If you are struggling to find one that works for you, your dentist will be able to recommend a few brands for you to try.

Lay Back on Carbohydrates

It is no secret that cravings get the best of us, but when you are brushing for two, limiting the number of carbohydrates in your diet can go a long way in protecting your teeth and gums from damage. Instead of reaching for sugar-laden snacks, opt for healthier options like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Adopting a healthy diet that is rich in calcium and vitamin D will also help keep your enamel and blood sugar levels in check throughout your pregnancy. This effort will also provide your growing baby with all the nutrients it needs for developing strong and healthy gums.

Get a Professional Clean

If you have not already, now is the time to get your teeth cleaned by a professional oral hygienist. During pregnancy, hormone levels tend to fluctuate, which can contribute to painful gum problems like gingivitis and pregnancy tumours in the gums. The rise in progesterone levels and imbalance in good bacteria within the gut can lead to an overgrowth of gingivitis, causing bacteria. This condition can cause bad breath and gum inflammation, which causes them to swell and bleed. In some severe cases, antibiotics or tooth extraction may be necessary to get the condition under control again.

To eliminate the risk of developing these dental issues, always brush and floss your teeth twice a day. Visiting an oral hygienist every six months can also help minimize the risk of pregnancy gingivitis.

Once Baby has Arrived

Labour and delivery can also take a toll on your oral health. You may start feeling like yourself again once the baby has arrived, but the risk of developing dental issues like gingivitis and tooth erosion is still high. Your hormones are still wreaking havoc on your system, and the fatigue may cause you to forget about brushing your teeth regularly. You are not alone; this happens to the best of us. During the first few months post-birth, it is crucial to keep an eye on your gums and teeth. If you notice any bleeding, swelling, or toothache, contact your dentist as soon as possible to get it seen to before concerns escalate. Even if the symptoms are not too severe, it is still beneficial to get a professional opinion.

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