Dental Health During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnant women and new mothers have a lot to worry about. You may be caring for many aspects of your physical health, but not your teeth. However, neglecting dental hygiene during pregnancy can have long-term consequences. Wellness Centered Dentistry is here to help.

Myths About New Mothers' Dental Health

Dental visits are not harmful to a pregnant mother's dental health. In reality, dental care for pregnant women is essential. Check your teeth and gums before or shortly after conception. During pregnancy, keep your regular dental appointments.

Another common misconception is that teeth lose calcium during pregnancy to support the baby. Although your body requires plenty of calcium for your baby's development, this is not true. Getting enough calcium in your diet plan is essential during pregnancy. Your obstetrician will advise you if you need to take additional calcium supplements.

Dental Conditions to Avoid

Gingivitis and periodontitis are more prevalent in pregnant women. Gessner et al. found that pregnancy increased gingival inflammation.

Progesterone production increases during pregnancy, causing acid reflux. Gingivitis causes swollen, red gums. If you have symptoms, call your dentist. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a serious gum disease that destroys gum tissue and causes teeth to shift and fall out. Periodontitis and preeclampsia are linked.

Watch for swelling, toothache, bad breath, and dark spots on your teeth. Tooth decay is common in pregnant women who are sick. Chronic vomiting erodes tooth enamel.

Dehydration and inadequate oral hygiene increase the risk of tooth decay in nursing mothers. Bacteria can easily be passed from mother to child, so preventing cavities is critical. Teeth grinding can be caused by postpartum neck and facial tension.

Dental Hygiene

The best way to avoid gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues is to practice good oral hygiene. Brush twice a day and floss once. After brushing, rinse with mouthwash.

Hydration also reduces the risk of cavities and other dental issues. Avoid sugars and starches. If you crave sugary foods, brush your teeth right away.

Early dental care is critical in pregnancy. These and other dental procedures are safe during pregnancy. Having a new baby can make dental hygiene difficult because you have more pressing concerns. But it is important for both the mother and her unborn child that she has good dental health.

We at Wellness Centered Dentistry can take care of this. Visit us at 16150 NE 85th St #115, Redmond, WA 98052. Call (425 )882-1354 for an appointment.