How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy During Pregnancy

During pregnancy it is important to practice healthy habits because you are now living for two. Your lifestyle and everyday activities will have a significant impact on your new born child. Therefore, it is very important that you maintain proper hygiene and stay healthy. One habit that is very important to practice is having good oral hygiene. It may sound the least important, but surprisingly having good oral hygiene during pregnancy is beneficial to your child. Research has revealed that having oral health problems during pregnancy can affect your baby’s well-being.

During pregnancy, levels of the hormone progesterone increases, which boost the circulation of estrogen. These can cause red, swollen or bleeding gums and increase the likelihood of plaque buildup. If you do not brush or floss regularly, you could develop gingivitis or periodontal disease (a more severe kind of gum disease). According to a study, women with periodontal disease are more prone to deliver their babies prematurely.

Here are some ways to keep your teeth healthy during pregnancy:

• Brush and floss at least two to three times a day.
• If your gums bleed from brushing, switch to a softer toothbrush.
• If you are planning to have a baby get your teeth examined before you become pregnant. Schedule an appointment with your dentist during your second trimester. If you’re already prone to gum problems you may need to see the dentist more frequently for teeth cleanings.
• Include more calcium and vitamin C in your diet. It will help keep your teeth strong.
• Avoid teeth-whitening kits and toothpastes that contain peroxide during pregnancy. These products may be harmful to your baby. Instead use American Dental Association (ADA) accepted fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth.
• Eat healthy and nutritious foods. Try to avoid eating unhealthy foods (fast food, greasy, high in sugar and fat, etc.).
• Have regular checkups with your dentist
• Talk to your dentist about using an antimicrobial mouth rinse.
• If your gums bleed, swell or become red, talk to your dentist immediately.
• If you have morning sickness, rinse your mouth with a mixture of one teaspoon of baking soda and water. Avoid brushing just after vomiting to prevent contact of more stomach acids with the teeth.

Take care of those pearly whites while you are pregnant, not only for you but for your baby too!

For more information or dental checkups, Contact Dr Aki Shirakura DDS!

Our desire is that each and every client who walks through the doors of Dr Aki Shirakura DDS has a dental experience that they feel great about. Call us today for a consultation at 914-273-9280.