Dental Care: Before, During & After Pregnancy

If you’re pregnant or planning on getting pregnant, you likely want your body to be as healthy as possible and that should include your mouth.

Here are some tips for optimal oral health before, during, and after your pregnancy.

Before

• Make an appointment with your dentist for a routine cleaning and check-up prior to getting pregnant.
• Take care of any major oral health issues immediately.

During

There are many oral health issues that can develop during pregnancy as a result of hormonal changes, such as gingivitis, enamel erosion, cavities and periodontitis. Try to take precautions to avoid them, and address them as soon as they arise.

• It’s key to maintain good overall health, including good oral health.
• It should be safe to have dental procedures during pregnancy, including routine cleanings, x-rays, local anesthetic and polishing.
• Untreated oral health issues many have adverse effects on the baby, because bacteria in the mouth may enter the bloodstream and travel to the fetus. This can result in low birth weights and pre-term births.
• If you experience morning sickness, be sure to rinse your mouth with water immediately after vomiting, and wait 30 minutes to brush to avoid damaging teeth enamel.

After

• Oral health issues that arise during pregnancy typically subside after the baby is born.
• If you experienced any dental problems that don’t go away, make an appointment with your dentist right away.

Sources:

• http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2694079/
• http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/life-stages/oral-care-during-pregnancy/article/pregnancy-prenatal-care-and-oral-health
• http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=h&iid=325&aid=1309
• http://www.acog.org/Resources-And-Publications/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Health-Care-for-Underserved-Women/Oral-Health-Care-During-Pregnancy-and-Through-the-Lifespan