Pregnancy affects nearly every aspect of a woman’s life, including her oral health. Taking good care of your mouth and teeth is important during pregnancy in order to maintain your oral health and to protect the health of your baby.
Professional cleanings are essential during pregnancy to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Because the body’s hormone levels rise during pregnancy, many women develop gingivitis and experience increased sensitivity in their gums. Typically this occurs between the second and eighth months and may cause gums to bleed during brushing and to become tender, red and puffy. This is due to an increased level of progesterone. For some women, morning sickness is a major symptom of pregnancy. Along with the nausea comes additional acid that, if left in your mouth, can erode your teeth. Be sure to rinse your mouth out with water or with a fluoride mouthwash to keep the acid level under control. Pregnancy dry mouth can put women at a greater risk for problems such as tooth decay and infections. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and chew sugarless gum to enhance production of saliva.
What you eat during your pregnancy affects the growth of your unborn child-including their teeth. Your baby’s teeth begin to develop during the second trimester of pregnancy. It is essential that you receive enough nutrients especially calcium, protein, phosphorus, and vitamins A,C and D.
