When you become pregnant, you could see changes in your hormones, especially progesterone which starts increasing and changing. These hormones not only affect the growth of your baby but also perform so many chemical changes inside your body. That’s why it is important to maintain your teeth and gums while you are pregnant. You can also schedule a visit to McKinney TX dentist when you are planning to get pregnant or already pregnant.
Dental Health During Pregnancy
Though changes are not evident in your dental health during the first trimester, you should not slack off your oral routine like brushing, flossing, and rinsing. You may witness swelling into your gums which could lead to other issues such as periodontal (gum) disease and gingivitis in any trimester of pregnancy. An increase in hormones often leads to dry mouth, especially during the night.
It has been found that 10% of pregnant women experience pregnancy granulomas or gum tissue growths. Changes in hormonal balance relax ligaments into your body which also include those in your mouth. So, keep an eye out for any loose teeth. That’s why we suggest visiting your nearby dentist to keep a check on your teeth and gum’s health.
Have a look at additional tips that you should keep in mind throughout your pregnancy:
· Those who experience morning sickness must rinse their mouth immediately.
· Change your toothpaste if it is causing you nauseous. You can switch toothpaste brands or change to a mild flavor.
· Make sure you brush your teeth from both front and back very well during pregnancy.
· Brush the gum line to avoid pregnancy gingivitis from occurring.
· Brush properly to prevent teeth and biting surfaces from dental caries (decay).
· If you have a midnight snack, make sure you brush your teeth again to reduce the chance of cavities.
· In addition to flossing and brushing, always rinse your mouth with a fluoride mouthwash.
All these important tips and information is crucial not only for you but also for your new baby. Poor dental hygiene has been associated with premature birth and low birth weight in babies.
Oral Health Distresses During Pregnancy
As already mentioned, pregnancy is associated with bodily changes that can result in numerous oral health effects. Your McKinney TX dentist can easily manage your dental condition and suggest you the best solution. They can provide you a solution for:
· Gingivitis, or swollen and bleeding gums intensified by inadequate home care and hormonal changes during pregnancy.
· Tooth erosion linked to an increase in the acidity of saliva caused due to morning sickness
· Cavities caused by the cravings for sugary foods.
· Pyogenic granulomas, which are round growths on the gums caused due to hormonal changes
You must talk to your dentist about the treatment options available for you because you are pregnant. They will check you thoroughly and confirm if you are really suffering from the suspected condition. If you require more extensive dental work while pregnant, then you can have a treatment during the second trimester. This is because, by the time you reach your third trimester, it would be difficult for you to lie on your back for a long time and get your treatment done.
Apart from brushing, dental experts outline a few steps for an expectant mother to ensure a healthy mouth during pregnancy. These include:
· Brush twice a day for 2 minutes each time with fluoride toothpaste.
· Floss every day to get rid of plaque and food debris
· Eat a balanced diet, limit snacks, and avoid sugary drinks and foods
· Maintain a plan of regular dental checkups before and during pregnancy for professional evaluation and cleanings if required.
· Protect your teeth by rinsing your mouth with a mixture of baking soda and warm water to neutralize stomach acids if you are experiencing morning sickness.
· Follow home care recommendations or essential treatments suggested by your dentist, such as an antibacterial mouth rinse.
Though the world is going through a tough time, dentists are following all safety norms necessary to avoid their patients from getting infected in any case. Pregnant women and their unborn children are more prone to such infections. Make sure you discuss your condition with your dentists so that he/she can make special arrangements for you.
The whole chamber must be sanitized first along with all tools and equipment. This whole process takes around 1-2 hours. In the case of a pregnant woman as a patient, a good dentist takes additional safety measures to avoid risking the life of a woman and her baby.
Even after your baby arrives, make sure you don’t leave your continuity of visiting your dentist. It is necessary even after you deliver your baby as maintaining optimal dental health is your responsibility for which you need to see your dentist at least biannually. Find out the best and most reputable dentist near you and schedule your visits. Maintaining your oral health is important not only for you but also for your baby no matter you are pregnant or you have delivered your baby. Your pregnancy cannot be an excuse for comprising your oral hygiene.