Dentist Claremont

 

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Do's and Don'ts of Dental Care During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, it’s extremely important to take good care of your teeth and gums.

The problem is, pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase your risk of developing gum disease which, in turn, can affect the health of your developing baby.

For your convenience, our dentists in Claremont have put together a few tips that will help you maintain good oral hygiene before, during and after pregnancy.

Dental Care during Pregnancy - Health Safety Do's and Don'ts

Visit your Dentist before your Pregnancy

If you’re planning your pregnancy, it’s important to make a dental appointment before falling pregnant.

That way, you can have your teeth cleaned professionally, gum tissue examined carefully, and any oral health problem treated prior to your pregnancy.

Dental Care While Pregnant (ALWAYS inform your dentist and doctor if you are pregnant)

Routine Dental Care

During pregnancy, routine dental care can be done at any time, this includes any urgent dental procedures.

However, all elective procedures should be postponed until after you deliver.

Before you have your dental appointment, it’s vital to check with your obstetrician just in case they have any special precautions or instructions for you.

Medications and Prenatal Vitamins

Make sure to tell your dentist the names and dosages of the prescribed medications you are taking, this includes your prenatal vitamins.

Additionally, inform your dentist of any medical advice your doctor has given you. Based on this information, your dentist may need to change your dental plan.

X-rays during Pregnancy

Fortunately, advances in technology have made x-rays much safer to perform during pregnancy. However, extreme caution should be taken to safeguard you and your baby, this may include your dentist shielding abdomen and thyroid during X-rays.

Regular Periodontal Exams

Having regular gum examinations during pregnancy is very important to the health of your baby.

Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase the risk of developing periodontal disease and pregnancy gingivitis.

It’s important to pay special attention to any changes in your gums during pregnancy. Any tenderness, swelling or bleeding must be reported to your dentist or periodontist as soon as possible.

Good Oral Hygiene

Additionally, maintain good oral hygiene practices throughout your pregnancy. This will prevent or help reduce oral health problems during pregnancy.

  • Brush your teeth regularly;
  • Floss regularly;
  • Rinse your mouth daily with mouth wash;
  • Check with your dentist about using supplemental fluoride.

Morning Sickness

Morning sickness often gets in the way of brushing teeth. Try change to a bland-tasting toothpaste if your morning sickness is keeping you from brushing your teeth.

Ask your dentist for recommended brands.

Always wash your mouth out with either water or mouth wash after experiencing morning sickness.

Limit your Sugar Snacking

Cravings, especially sweet cravings, are common during pregnancy. However, it’s important to limit your sugar intake to lower your chances of developing tooth decay.

Healthy Diet

Your baby’s first teeth develop at about 3 months.

Eating a balanced diet, one containing dairy products such as cheese and yoghurt, will help provide your baby with the essential minerals needed for good teeth, gum and bone development.

Dental Care after Delivery

Make sure to visit your dentist once you have given birth, so they can examine your entire mouth and treat any gum problems you may have had during pregnancy.

Cloud 9 Dental – Dentist Claremont

Our Dentist in Claremont has years of experience performing dental procedures on pregnant women.

We take great care in making sure both the mother and baby are safe and comfortable.

For more information about our dental practice in Claremont or to book an appointment, please contact us.

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