Expecting a baby??

It’s important for you to take good care of your teeth and gums while pregnant. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase the risk of developing gum diseases, which in turn can affect the health of your developing baby.

Here are some tips which will help you maintain good oral health before, during and after pregnancy:

1.Before your pregnancy: Try to make a Dental appointment before planning your pregnancy. This way your teeth can be professionally cleaned, gum tissue can be carefully examined and any oral health problem can be treated in advance of your pregnancy.

2. Dental care during pregnancy Tell your dentist about your pregnancy. Routine Dental Care can be planned any time during pregnancy. Any urgent procedure can be done as well. All elective procedures, however should be postponed until after delivery. Before you have your dental appointment, check with your obstetrician to see if she has any precautions or instructions for you. .Inform your dentist the names and dosage of all medications you are taking as well as any specific medical advice your obstetrician has given you. Dental x rays if needed can be taken under extreme caution provided by your dentist with lead aprons and thyroid collars. Advances in technology has made x rays much safer today. Don’t skip your dental appointment simply because you are pregnant. Regular periodontal (gum)examination is very important, because pregnancy causes hormonal changes that put you at risk of periodontal disease and tender gums that bleed easily (gingivitis). Pay particular attention to your gums for any changes like tenderness, bleeding and swelling. Follow good oral hygiene practices to prevent and reduce oral health problems.

3. Coping with morning sickness-

If this is keeping you from brushing your teeth, change your toothpaste to a bland one. Ask your dentist to recommend you one. Rinse your mouth with water or a mouth rinse if you suffer from morning sickness and have bouts of frequent vomiting.

4. Eat right- Avoid sugary snacks. Sweet cravings are common during pregnancy. However, keep in mind that more frequent snacks, increase the chances of tooth decay. Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Your baby’s first teeth begin to develop about 3 months into pregnancy. Healthy diets containing dairy products like cheese, yogurt are a good source of these essential minerals and are good for baby’s developing teeth, gums and bones.

5. After pregnancy- If you have experienced any gum problems during your pregnancy, see your dentist soon after delivery, to have your entire mouth examined and periodontal health evaluated.

Protecting your child’s teeth begins in pregnancy.