From brushing our teeth regularly to popping a mint for a good breath, maintaining good oral hygiene is something we don’t compromise on.However, oral health during pregnancy might be more than maintaining a basic dental health routine. This period calls to be extra careful with dental fitness along with overall health.
But Why? And what can you do to take care of your oral health during pregnancy?
Read this blog to know all about it!
How does Pregnancy impact your Oral health?
Pregnancy comes with many physiological and psychological changes in your body. Due to an increase in certain hormones like Progesterone and Estrogen, your oral health during pregnancy requires more care than usual.
A pregnant women’s oral health care needs differ from the normal population. Along with dental pain and discomfort, observing blood in the oral cavity might make them extremely nervous.
What does Research say?
A research study done to understand the link between Periodontitis (inflammatory disease of teeth tissues) and premature labor indicated a positive association between both.
Wondering how? It suggests that the bacteria responsible for inflammation in the gums can go into the mom’s bloodstream and harm the fetus, leading to premature labor.
In addition to Periodontitis, other dental problems during pregnancy include:
- Tooth decay
- Gingivitis
- Loose teeth
- Pregnancy tumors
How to take care of your oral health during pregnancy?
While pregnancy calls for additional dental care, it might sometimes seem near impossible. And that’s okay, moms-to-be.
How can someone be expected to floss when they already feel extremely nauseous?
Check out these few simple tips you can follow on a day-to-day basis to have a healthy dental routine:
Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
During pregnancy, your gums become more sensitive and tender than they usually are. Using your normal toothbrush might cause gum bleeding and pain. Use a brush that has soft bristles to avoid the same.
Keep Rinsing
While brushing your teeth twice a day is recommended for a healthy routine, make sure to rinse your mouth well if you miss out on brushing.
Stock up on Calcium-rich foods
Consumption of 1200-1500 mg of calcium is essential for you and your baby. Along with your dental care, this will come in handy once your baby begins to develop their teeth.
Calcium-rich foods include- cereal, milk, dairy products, fish etc.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking has a negative impact on your oral health. Your gums and tongue can get severely impacted by the 4000 different chemicals that a cigarette contains.
Alcohol consumption during pregnancy has been linked with multiple dental anomalies.
A Full Oral Examination is a must
Even before gestation begins, it’s important to consult your dentist for a full dental check-up. If you missed it already, don’t worry. Making sure about a good dental routine while you’re pregnant is always a good idea.
Takeaway
Taking care of your oral health becomes even more critical during pregnancy and should not be ignored. Remember, there is a direct link between hormonal changes during pregnancy and the amount of bacterial plaque that accumulates in your mouth. Make sure to brush and floss your teeth, along with avoiding foods that are too sugary.
