Pregnant women should look after their oral health, yet almost all neglect it or have mistaken ideas about it. The body undergoes a hormonal change that raises the risk of developing gum disease. If dental care is neglected during pregnancy, that can have a negative effect on the health of the growing baby. During pregnancy women are encouraged to develop more positive habits for themselves, and by looking after the mother’s dental health, dentists and doctors help reduce risk.
Important activities during pregnancy
There are a great many obligations during pregnancy, and dental routines are no exception. Women can go to the dentist during pregnancy and have regular examinations. The dentist should, however, be told that you are pregnant, including which month you are in. Below are some suggestions for balancing dental health during pregnancy effortlessly.
Brushing properly
Proper brushing is essential for optimal oral health. According to various studies, brushing improperly is almost as bad as not brushing at all, so cleaning your teeth is essential. Otherwise a range of problems can arise and affect the growing child. Plaque can harden if it is not brushed away properly, which can lead to gum disease. That is why it matters to brush twice, gently and in circular movements.
Using a fluoride toothpaste
Toothpaste is not only for flavouring and whitening the teeth. There are a number of other things to bear in mind when buying it. Whichever brand you choose and however expensive it is, it must contain fluoride. Fluoride is the most important component of toothpaste and supports proper oral hygiene during pregnancy. It helps prevent decay and, besides protecting the teeth, also fights bacteria.
Thinking about mouthwash
Many expectant mothers avoid mouthwash because they are unsure of its effectiveness. Mouthwash does, however, help remineralise the teeth, reduce acidity in the mouth and clean areas that are hard to reach with a brush. Using a rinse should be one of the regular routines during pregnancy. Your dentist can also recommend the best mouthwash.
Drinking plenty of water
The healthiest drink for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy mouth is water. Women should not become dehydrated during pregnancy and need to stay well hydrated, especially after every meal. Drinking water is another factor in maintaining excellent dental health: it helps wash away the negative effects of acidic and sticky food and drink, which need to be removed because they can lead to gum disease.
Eating more crunchy vegetables and fruit
Eating more convenience food does the teeth no favours. Pregnant women’s teeth benefit most from crunchy, fresh fruit and vegetables, because these contain more fibre. The jaw then works properly and good oral habits are encouraged.
Eating sugary and acidic food only in small amounts
Sweet food is ultimately turned into acids in the mouth. These acids attack the enamel and cause decay and cavities. Pregnant women should eat only small amounts of sweet and acidic food, since dental care during pregnancy is decisive. Tea, coffee and acidic fruit attack the enamel. That does not mean giving them up entirely, but rather eating them in moderation.
Telling the dentist about the pregnancy
It helps to tell your dentist that you are pregnant. Women can see their dentist at any time for regular examinations and treatment. All elective procedures are, however, often postponed by dentists until after the birth. Before arranging a dental consultation, women should always find out whether they need to see their gynaecologist and whether there are particular instructions or precautions to observe.
Telling the dentist about medication
Women need to tell the dentist the names of the prescribed medicines they are taking. Prenatal vitamins and medication prescribed by their doctor should also be mentioned, as should any particular medical recommendations. The dentist can adjust the treatment strategy taking this important information into account.
The conclusion
The whole of a pregnancy and oral health depend on daily habits. If a pregnant woman has oral health problems such as decay, cavities or gum disease, she should see a dentist. The dentist offers suitable treatment or remedies after identifying any problems. Contact us and talk to the dentist at Zahnchirurgie Köln to resolve your dental problems.
