During your pregnancy, you know how important it is to take care of your body. Among other things, that means refraining from drinking alcohol and smoking. However, did you also know that maintaining a good oral hygiene regime can also play a role in your staying healthy during those nine months?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that pregnant women not forget to schedule regular dental checkups. However, you should let your Raleigh dentist know what month you are in before having any procedures or treatments.
You should also tell the dentist or hygienist if you have any medical conditions since certain treatments or procedures may be rescheduled for after you give birth.
Here are some more tips on how to maintain a healthy mouth during your pregnancy courtesy of the ADA:
1) Brush twice a day using an ADA-approved fluoride-containing toothpaste.
2) Floss those pearly whites daily.
3) Snack on nutrient-filled foods. Although you might have cravings for candy bars, keep in mind that they are just going to coat your teeth with sugar that isn't good for you or your baby.
4) Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse if you are experiencing difficulties controlling plaque and buildup.
5) Try rinsing with a teaspoon of baking soda and water if you have bad morning sickness. Also, steer clear of brushing right after you vomit as doing so can actually lead to more dental erosion.
Keep in mind that it is completely normal to experience tender gums and even a bit of swelling during your pregnancy. However, if you notice you are bleeding more than usual, make sure that you schedule an appointment with your dentist sooner rather than later.
