Your body undergoes tremendous changes during pregnancy. With all these hormonal changes happening, you can expect it to affect your body in a variety of ways. Hormonal changes can make your body more vulnerable to bacteria and plaque buildup. This can result in your gums feeling more tender than normal. The changes your feeling do not affect you alone. Your baby feels this too. For this reason, your dental care is vitally important to your overall health to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy and healthy gums. Below you’ll find dental tips that are designed to keep your oral health in pristine condition.
Don’t Stop Brushing Your Teeth. Sure, if you’re suffering from morning sickness, brushing your teeth doesn’t seem to appeal with all the gagging you’re experiencing. You still need to brush your teeth twice a day at a minimum with fluoride toothpaste. If you increase your tooth brushing routine to three or four times a day, you’ll be able to fight off the plaque with ease. If you’re experiencing tenderness or swollen gums due to pregnancy gingivitis, switch to a softer toothbrush.
Flossing and Checkups Are Still Important. It’s essential that you floss your teeth twice a day to stave off plaque buildup and bacterial infections. If you want your oral health to remain in superior condition, you need to take extra precautions. Be sure to visit Dana Walters DDS regularly for a professional cleaning and dental care checkup.
Don’t Let Morning Sickness Ruin Your Oral Health. A great dental tip most women don’t hear enough is that if you’re struggling with morning sickness, rinse your mouth out with a single teaspoon of baking soda and water. If you can get the go-ahead from your doctor, try using a baking soda toothpaste. To ensure stomach acids aren’t eating away at your teeth, you should always rinse your mouth out with water each time you vomit. It’ll also help if you maintain a healthy diet that is tailored to keeping your gums in great shape. Try eating foods that are rich in calcium, B12 and vitamin C. Call Dana Walters DDS for more helpful dental tips.