Pregnancy Archives - Upper Arlington

Oral Problems During Pregnancy

Posted on March 10, 2017March 20, 2017 by Dr. Dana Walters

Many women experience oral problems during pregnancy. When you are aware of both the facts and myths, you can prepare to take care of your oral health.

Pregnancy Myths:

One of the most common myths is women always lose a tooth each time they are pregnant. A second myth is an unborn child’s need for calcium takes calcium from the mother’s teeth. These are only old-fashioned myths, and neither are true.

Pregnancy Facts:

When you are pregnant, your hormones increase. This affects the way your body responds to the plaque on your teeth. When the plaque increases, it increases your risk of tooth decay and tooth loss.

Pregnancy and Dental Care:

These changes do not have to mean losing your teeth. You can take steps to keep your teeth healthy during your pregnancy.

First, visit your dentist for an examination and cleaning. The best time to do this is before you become pregnant. It is also the ideal time to have dental work completed. However, if you learn you are pregnant and have not seen the dentist, you can still have your teeth cleaned and examined.

Second, home dental care is important during pregnancy. Do not forget to brush and floss at least twice each day.

Third, a healthy diet is essential for your child, and it also promotes oral health. Avoid junk foods and sugary products. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. While your baby will not take calcium from your teeth, your baby needs calcium to grow properly and you need it for healthy teeth and bones.
You do not need to experience oral problems during pregnancy. These tips can keep your teeth healthy while you wait for your child to be born. You can welcome your baby into the world, and have excellent oral health, too.

The Importance of Proper Dental Care During Pregnancy

Posted on October 14, 2016October 18, 2016 by Dr. Dana Walters

shutterstock_367894586 During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes many changes. Her mind is usually focused on her developing baby. Besides proper nutrition, it is also important to follow a solid dental care routine. Having a healthy mouth is a vital part of pregnancy.

Gum Disease. During pregnancy, a woman’s hormones are constantly changing. This leaves her most vulnerable to bacteria that leads to tooth decay. It is common for gum disease to develop as well. This condition may heighten the risks of premature labor. To prevent problems, it is crucial to brush and floss each day.

Increased Plaque. A pregnant woman is most likely to suffer from plaque build-up, which may lead to gum problems. At this time, the body does not fight plaque as quickly as it does in a non-pregnant person. If plaque is allowed to build, it may lead to gingivitis. When a pregnant woman already has gingivitis, it may become worse. To ensure that plaque is completely removed from teeth, a pregnant woman should schedule a professional cleaning at her dentist’s office.

Dental Tips for Pregnant Women:

Pregnant women should follow certain dental tips to ensure a healthy mouth.

Proper Hygiene. Although everyone should follow a daily dental hygiene routine, it is essential during pregnancy. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. It is best to floss and rinse with a antimicrobial mouthwash as well. This is especially important when a woman suffers from morning sickness.
Healthy Diet. Eating right will preserve the health of you and your baby. Also, it ensures that your child will have strong teeth. An embryo’s teeth develop during the third through sixth month of pregnancy, so a mother’s diet plays a key role in creating healthy teeth.
Dental Visits. Pregnant women frequently visit their doctors for examinations, so it is wise to make appointments for dental checkups as well. A dentist will help a woman keep her gums and teeth as healthy as possible.

If you are a pregnant woman, it is never too early to begin practicing top dental care. Dr. Dana Walters is always available to share tips that ensure pregnant patients give birth to healthy babies. To schedule a consultation, call the office today.

Tips From Dr. Dana Walters on Pregnancy and Dental Concerns

Posted on May 23, 2016 by Dr. Dana Walters

During pregnancy, it is important for women to practice a positive oral care routine. At this time, there are many oral health issues that can start. Before baby arrives, it is important to learn some tips to maintain a healthy mouth and smile.

Oral Problems During Pregnancy-

As hormones change, gums can swell and cause a place where food may become trapped. This can lead to a painful infection or gum disease. When left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.

Morning sickness is common as well. Besides the stomach upset, throwing up can wreak havoc on a woman’s teeth. As acid from the stomach enters the mouth, it can eat at tooth enamel. To keep damage to a minimum, a woman should brush her teeth and rinse with a solution of baking soda after every episode.

Tips to Keep Teeth and Gums Healthy-

According to the American Dental Association, it is essential to brush with a fluoride toothpaste and to floss twice a day. This removes harmful plaque. Also, it is wise to avoid frequent snacking. Although it is tempting to binge on sugary treats, this often raises the risks of developing tooth decay. It is better to consume a diet filled with vitamins and minerals, especially calcium. Since a baby’s teeth develop approximately three months into pregnancy, a healthy diet will keep everything on track.

Visiting a dentist is vital as well. It is important to explain the due date to the dentist and provide a list of all the supplements being taken. During pregnancy, there are no risks associated with receiving a routine dental cleaning and oral exam. If x-rays are necessary, they may be delayed until after the baby’s birth or at least until the second trimester. At this gestation period, it may be safe to receive local anesthesia and to take certain pain medications as well.

When a woman is pregnant, it is essential to maintain oral and overall health. Leaving dental issues untreated may be harmful to the fetus. It is advised to follow a thorough cleaning routine and schedule an appointment with the dentist every six months. During a visit, all dental concerns can be addressed so that mother and baby retain healthy teeth. Dr. Dana Walters and his entire staff are proud to deliver quality dental care to pregnant patients. He works diligently to prevent and treat oral issues that may arise.

The Importance of Proper Dental Care During Pregnancy

Posted on September 10, 2015September 14, 2015 by Dr. Dana Walters

During pregnancy, a mom-to-be visits her gynecologist regularly. It is also important for her to consider her oral health. Statistically, mothers with gum disease have an elevated risk of giving birth early or having a baby with a low birth weight. As hormones change, other problems may develop as well. It is essential to understand the importance of solid oral care throughout pregnancy.

Developing Gingivitis. The shift in hormones often causes gums to become inflamed and susceptible to gingivitis. To avoid serious plaque buildup, it is necessary to brush with a fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and visit a dentist for a professional cleaning.

Periodontal Infections. One possible bacterial infection in the mouth is periodontal disease. Although it strikes the gums, it can be passed through the uterus to an unborn baby. The bacteria can trigger prostaglandin production, which often leads to premature labor. This raises the risks of a stillbirth or other fetal deformities.

Dental Tumors. During a woman’s first trimester, dental tumors are common. They occur between the teeth and take the shape of painless lumps. Usually, they disappear after giving birth. However, if they are extremely large and do not go away, a special procedure is needed to remove them.

Avoid Enamel Erosion. Morning sickness is a common side effect of pregnancy. Besides the annoying queasy feelings, it may cause vomiting that fills the mouth with acid. To prevent this acid from eroding tooth enamel, it is advised to rinse with a teaspoon of baking soda and water.

Attempting Proper Dental Care During Pregnancy. After a woman discovers she is pregnant, she must practice a nutritional diet. Besides eating foods filled with vitamins and minerals, it is wise to limit sugar intake. Although it is common to give into sweet cravings, snacking on fruits and vegetables is preferred. Without excess sugar in the mouth, plaque will not have an environment that encourages growth.

According to the American Dental Association, it is vital for a pregnant woman to schedule regular oral examinations with her dentist. This professional will chart a successful hygiene routine, treat existing decay, and answer further questions about how proper dental care positively affects pregnancy.

The Importance of Proper Dental Care During Pregnancy

Posted on April 16, 2014April 11, 2014 by Dr. Dana Walters

Good oral health is very important during pregnancy. In addition to brushing and flossing daily, expectant mothers should visit the dentist for regular exams and professional cleanings. Dr. Dana Walters is happy to help moms-to-be in Hilliard and Upper Arlington, Ohio maintain a healthy smile during their pregnancy.

Women who are expecting have a lot on their minds, but it’s important not to overlook the need for proper dental care. Existing dental problems can actually be made worse by pregnancy. Proper prevention and treatment of oral issues should be a priority. Inform the dentist about the pregnancy, and be sure to note any oral health changes that may occur.

To keep teeth clean and healthy, be sure to brush at least twice daily with a soft brush, as gums can become more sensitive. Keep dental appointments for teeth cleanings and exams. Healthy gums and teeth can contribute to a healthy pregnancy for both mother and baby.