What Your Teeth Expect When You’re Expecting

Every aspect of your life seems to require some special care during your nine months. Your teeth, gums and mouth are no exception! Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that greatly increases a woman’s chances of developing periodontal disease, or gum disease. This in turn can affect the health of your unborn baby. But don’t stress too much; caring for your teeth and gums during pregnancy isn’t any harder than it normally is.

Here are some tips for caring for your baby, body and you by caring for your teeth!

• Meet with your dentist after finding out you’re pregnant or even before if you are trying to become pregnant. Maintaining good oral health during pregnancy is easier if you begin with healthy teeth and gums. Your dentist can help address any dental health problems before your pregnancy.

• This preliminary appointment is important for other reasons. It’s not usually safe to undergo any sort of serious dental treatments during the first trimester, when the baby has only just begun to develop. This is why it’s crucial to treat any serious issues prior pregnancy so they won’t worsen during the first 3 months of pregnancy, when they have to be left untreated.

• Many women when pregnant experience something commonly referred to as “pregnancy gingivitis.” Women who have never before had gingivitis in their lives can still have it during pregnancy. Taking special care to floss once a day, and brush your gums when brushing your teeth can help prevent this. Having gingivitis does not guarantee that it will advance into periodontal disease, but the sufferer should be monitored regardless.

• During pregnancy some women are particularly sensitive to smells and tastes, often triggering nausea. If you find your toothpaste affecting you in this way, switch to a blander flavor or brand.

If you’re pregnant and looking to maintain your oral health call Dr. Arzegar of the Lifetime Smiles today and schedule an appointment!