Pregnancy and Oral Health: What New Moms Should Know


Pregnancy is a beautiful yet trying time in a woman’s life. If you’re pregnant, you know what we’re talking about. Morning sickness, pangs of indigestion, heartburn, and frequent visits to the toilet can be very tiresome.
But don’t let these minor inconveniences keep you from ensuring that you have a healthy baby and an uncomplicated delivery. Eat nutritious food, keep yourself happy, and follow your doctor’s advice. And if you haven’t already, you should also pay a little extra attention to your oral cavity.
The Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention says that pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing gum diseases and cavities. All that throwing up in the morning can aid acid reflux in your mouth, which can lead to the accumulation of bacteria.
So, make sure you visit your dentist regularly to eliminate any onset signs of oral problems in your mouth.
If you’re unsure about how your oral health can affect your unborn baby, here’s what research says.
How does my oral health affect my child’s oral cavity?
Substantial research has seen a link between gum diseases in pregnant women and premature birth with low birth weight in newborns. The CDC also found that children of mothers who had untreated cavities during pregnancy were three times more likely to have dental caries.
All those sugary foods and drinks that you have started craving for since you became pregnant can lead to a higher risk for cavities. If you have dental caries, don’t wait for them to spread and get yourself treated right away.
But wait. Are you unsure about the safety of dental treatments during pregnancy?
Pregnancy and dental treatments
The CDC states that with adequate precautions in place, dentists can safely administer many routine and preventive dental procedures in pregnant women. Nonetheless, in some cases, your dental professional may delay your non-emergency procedure.
But some cases such as scaling and root planning are necessary and can’t be delayed due to the risks that they pose to your oral cavity. If you suffer from periodontal disease and have sore gums, make sure that you get them treated promptly.


How can I take care of my oral health?
Brush your teeth twice daily and an hour after you throw up with a fluoridated toothpaste.
Floss regularly and rinse your mouth with a fluoridated mouthwash.
Take a sufficient intake of calcium. Some rich sources of calcium include milk, cheese, and unsweetened yogurt.
Increase your vitamin D consumption through eggs, fatty fish, and fortified margarine.
Make sure that you’re also visiting your dentist regularly!
Follow these simple tips to keep your mouth and baby healthy!

At Advanced Dental Center, we offer dental treatments using sedation dentistry, crowns and bridges, dental implants, as well as root canals in Germantown, MD. Visit our website or call us at 301-353-8890 for an appointment.



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