When you find out you are pregnant, you naturally go to the doctor more often, take pre-natal vitamins, and do much more to ensure the safety of your baby. However, many pregnant women do not take into account their dental health. When you are pregnant, there are oral care considerations that should be taken into account.
Gums: Your gums can become more sensitive and inflamed due to hormone changes; pregnancy gingivitis is a potential concern you should speak to your dentist about. In addition, you can develop a pregnancy tumor on your gums, which is just a small, painless bump on the gums that should not cause any problems. However, if you are having this issue, you should see your dentist.
Symptoms: Morning sickness is a very common symptom of pregnancy. Unfortunately, this also means that more acid comes into contact with your teeth. Carry a toothbrush or a fluoride rinse with you if you find that you are going through a bout of morning sickness. You also need extra calcium when you are pregnant, which is good for your teeth since it helps strengthen them. Taking a calcium supplement while you are pregnant is good for your baby and your teeth.
General Dental Work: Sometimes, a dental emergency takes place and you will need an X-ray. If this does occur, make sure to tell your dentist you are pregnant. He or she can get you a lead apron to wear so as to avoid exposing your baby to radiation. In general, dental work is safe during pregnancy, but the best time to have your six month check-up is between the 14th and 20th week.
Making sure your baby is happy and healthy is the most important thing. Keeping your oral health top notch during pregnancy will help with this; women with periodontal disease are up to seven times more likely to have a premature or low birth weight child. If you are pregnant, schedule an appointment with Chicago Smile Design to discuss any concerns you have with our dentist!
Courtesy of: American Family Physician