Dental Health And Pregnancy: The Importance of Looking After Your Teeth
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Taking good care of one’s dental health is often overlooked, yet it plays a significant role in overall well-being during pregnancy. In addition, some changes occur when expecting, which makes keeping up with routine dental care even more imperative- thus making it vital to look after not only your body but also your oral care throughout this particular time. In this blog post, we will discuss why dental health and pregnancy go hand in hand and point out some important ways to manage dental hygiene to prevent any future issues from arising from a lack of proper care.
Overview of Dental Health and Pregnancy
It is vitally important for pregnant women to take care of their dental health, as gum issues and overall oral hygiene can significantly impact the health and well-being of both mother and baby. Pregnancy can cause several changes in the mouth, often resulting in an increased risk of dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, or even pregnancy tumors. In addition, untreated infections around the teeth may enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to a miscarriage or premature birth. Furthermore, problems with teeth or gums during pregnancy are linked to an increased risk of preterm labor and low birth weight babies. Therefore, pregnant women must pay extra care and attention to their dental well-being and take steps to protect their oral health through routine check-ups with their dentist instead of skipping visits due to fear or stress.
Changes to Expect in Pregnant Women’s Teeth, Gums, and Mouth
Being pregnant can cause drastic changes to a woman’s teeth, gums, and mouth. Most women experience an increase in the amount of plaque and bacteria present in their mouths during pregnancy due to alterations in hormone levels. Plaque and bacteria can lead to swollen, tender gums that may even bleed when brushing or flossing. Women should also keep a watchful eye on gum pain or a bad taste in their mouth as these signs may signal severe dental issues such as periodontitis and dental decay requiring medical treatment.
Tips for Eating Well to Benefit Your Oral Health While Pregnant
You should follow some specific tips to protect your oral health while pregnant:
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks that provide no nutritional value but can lead to tooth decay.
- Calcium is an essential nutrient for both mom and baby during pregnancy, so aim to increase consumption of dairy products like milk, yogurt, or cheese as part of meals or snacks throughout the day.
- Pick darker-colored fruits and vegetables as they contain more phytochemicals that are known to protect teeth from bacteria, and viruses and by reducing plaque build-up on teeth.
Although everyday oral hygiene practices should still be followed throughout all stages of life, pregnant women should pay special attention to the care of their teeth, gums, and mouth because a healthy mouth is an essential part of having a healthier pregnancy. In addition, taking measures today can lead to critical benefits for both the mother and her baby tomorrow.