Just as your oral health connects to your body, dental care is crucial to the health of your developing baby. It is tremendously important to take good care of your teeth and gums during pregnancy as some oral health issues may arise, increasing your risk of complications.
When To See Your Dentist
If you are pregnant, see your dentist as soon as you can. Let your dentist know if you are a high-risk pregnancy and how far along you are. If you are planning to become pregnant, it’s best to visit your dental team beforehand so they can take care of any dental problems beforehand.
Tooth decay, gum disease and oral growths called “pregnancy tumours” are treatable, so be sure to schedule a visit to your dentist. If your dental condition requires medication or general anaesthesia, get advice from your dentist, physician or obstetrician.
How To Avoid Dental Problems Associated with Pregnancy
Increase your calcium intake
Extra calcium helps protect your bone mass as well as meet the nutritional needs of your baby. Good sources of dietary calcium include:
- Milk
- Cheese
- Yoghurt
- Kale
- Spinach
- Calcium-fortified soymilk
Increase your vitamin D intake
You also need a sufficient amount of vitamin D in your body. Good sources of vitamin D include:
- Fish oil
- Cod liver oil
- Cheese
- Margarine
- Fortified Cereals
- Eggs
Maintain good dental care
Your prenatal care must also involve spending some time on your dental care routine.
- Use a soft-bristled brush and floss when cleaning your teeth
- Keep your teeth clean, particularly near the gum line
- If brushing your teeth causes vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or anti-microbial mouth rinse.
- Control plaque and gingivitis with more regular dental cleanings from the dentist
- Keep your mouth healthy by eating foods rich in vitamin C and B12
Keep in mind that you are less likely to experience dental problems during pregnancy if you are already practising good oral hygiene habits. With proper at-home dental care and professional help from your dentist, coupled with a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition, your teeth and body will stay healthy during pregnancy. So will that of your baby.
Healthy Teeth, Healthy Pregnancy at Simply Smiles Dental
It is important to see your dental team during pregnancy for check-ups and cleanings, along with oral care regimen at home. Keeping your mouth healthy will ensure that you and your baby are in great condition at the time of birth.
For more comprehensive advice about your pregnancy and oral health, visit your Mernda dentist at Simply Smiles Dental today. Our all-inclusive services can help prevent and improve dental issues that may affect your pregnancy.
Our location is in Toorak Village, in the heart of Toorak, and serve patients from Toorak, South Yarra, Prahran, Windsor, Southbank, South Melbourne, Port Melbourne, Malvern, Albert Park, Melbourne CBD, and other metro areas.
We are a Medibank and HCF Members Choice Dentist and an HCF Members Choice Dentist.
Don’t miss these latest dental offers. Contact us on (03) 9826 2220 or request an appointment online. Same Day Emergency Appointment.
