NORTHAMPTON, EAST LONGMEADOW AND SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS — According to Northampton MA Dentist, If you are an expectant mother, you may be studying up on how to take care of your baby’s teeth once he/she is born. What you may not know, though, is that your own teeth require special attention during pregnancy.
Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that can put you at a greater risk for developing oral health problems like gum disease. Once these issues develop, they can put your and your baby’s health in danger.
For example, more than 90 percent of heart disease patients also have gum disease, according to WebMD. Also, gum disease causes your body to release greater levels of fluids that induce labor.
“Expectant mothers should not lose any sleep over their oral health, but I always recommend that they make an extra effort to take care of their mouth,” said Northampton MA Invisalign provider Dr. Lisa Emirzian of EMA Dental. “Luckily there are several simple ways pregnant women can make sure their oral health does not cause any harm to their and their baby’s overall health.”
Below are eight tips that can help you maintain good oral health during pregnancy:
1. Tell your dentist that you are expecting so that proper timing of proposed procedures can be determined.
2. Your dentist will be more conservative with dental x-rays during pregnancy.
3. Attend your regular dental appointments so your dentist and hygienist can maintain your oral health and examine your gums for signs of periodontal disease.
4. Do not let morning sickness keep you from brushing your teeth when you get ready for the day. Opt for a more bland-tasting toothpaste if your current one is making you sick.
5. Rinse your mouth with at least water, preferably mouthwash, after bouts of sickness.
6. Stick to snacks that are not sugary. The more you snack, the greater your chance of developing tooth decay. Healthy snacks are especially important since several studies have found that the bacteria that causes tooth decay can be passed from you to your baby.
7. Brush teeth twice a day and floss once a day to make sure that your teeth and gum lines are kept clean.
8. Research your dental insurance plan benefits because some dental insurance carriers offer increased coverage for expectant mothers.
Springfield, MA Dentists like Dr. Vincent Mariano and Dr. Emirzian, who offer teeth whitening, invisible braces,ceramic-crowns and other general and cosmetic services, care about your oral health. They can help you create a personalized oral health routine that aims to keep you and your baby safe. Call your local dentist today to learn more about how you can care for your mouth during pregnancy.
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