Guidelines for Dental Care During Pregnancy

Taking care of your teeth is always important, and taking care of your teeth during pregnancy is no exception. Your oral health is important to your overall health and should be taken seriously during your pregnancy and early preparation, even before you are pregnant.

Keep these oral health tips in mind about dental care when you are pregnant.

Things to Remember

• X-rays, if necessary, can be done.  Advances in safety procedures have made the procedure possible when and if necessary.
• Elective procedures should be deferred until after your baby is born.
• Take care to note any dental infection, bleeding in the gums, or toothache during your pregnancy, and see your dentist as soon as possible to take care of it before it gets serious.

Step One: Advise your dentist of your pregnancy

This ensures that your dentist has all the information needed in case you have a dental problem during your pregnancy. Also, it will give your dentist an early opportunity to provide you information prior to your next scheduled visit.

Step Two: Inform yourself about dental health and pregnancy

Good daily care is important to keep your teeth healthy when you are pregnant. To prevent tooth issues, remember to brush your teeth twice per day and floss once per day. These are habits that you should always have, but you especially want to avoid serious dental problems when you are pregnant – sedation is not something you should consider when pregnant.

Next, prepare a list of all medications and dosages you are currently taking and any instructions from your physician. This will be helpful for your dentist. Avoiding certain drugs such as tetracycline, which can affect the healthy development of your baby, is also advised during your pregnancy.

Step Three: Understand the role of nutrition in healthy teeth

Similar to other health aspects of your pregnancy, eating foods that are rich in the vitamins and minerals necessary your baby’s development is a good start in your pregnancy and the dental health of you and your baby.

OralB, a prominent dental care product manufacturer, says that a well-balanced diet is beneficial for both you and your baby’s dental health, as well as overall health.  Calcium, vitamin D, C and A, phosphorous, and protein are nutritional elements that your body will need. Eating foods that contain these elements are wise and advisable to avoid dental problems during pregnancy.

You should avoid snacking too much when you are pregnant, as plaque will form. This is the precursor to tooth decay.

You also should remember to avoid all tobacco products and alcohol when pregnant. Not only are these stimulants bad for your baby – they can damage your teeth, too.

Following these simple guidelines and tips will help to keep your dental health in top shape when you are expecting.

Bonus: Dental Myth Busting!

Dental exams and cleanings are unsafe during pregnancy.

Fact

They are safe and you should not avoid dental procedures. However, you should not undergo any dental procedure that requires you to be fully sedated.