If you are expecting a baby, congratulations! Preparing for your new arrival is probably your priority, but pregnancy can cause many unexpected changes to your body, including issues with your oral health. Hormonal changes may increase your risk of gum disease, so looking after your teeth is more important than ever.
A private dental practice can arrange for you to receive immediate first-class dental care. Looking after your oral health is also important so, in this article, we’ll outline five tips to support your teeth and gums during pregnancy.
1. Brush And Floss Regularly
With other stresses and strains on your body, you could almost certainly do without gum and teeth pain in pregnancy! Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day to remove the plaque and bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. It’s important to brush thoroughly, especially along the gumline where plaque accumulates, but apply gentle pressure as your gums may bleed more easily.
2. Eat A Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is great for your growing baby, but one that is rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins C and D can also help to protect your teeth and gums. Increase your consumption of dairy products, leafy greens, and lean proteins, such as chicken, fish, egg, quinoa, soybeans, and chickpeas. Also, reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks, as these will increase the risk of cavities that cause nerve pain and damage the pulp, soft tissue inside the tooth.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps to rinse away bacteria and trapped food particles that contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Staying hydrated also prevents dry mouth, a common condition in pregnancy which is uncomfortable and increases the risk of cavities. Aim to drink at least eight to twelve glasses of water a day.
4. Visit Your Dentist
Throughout your pregnancy, it’s important to visit your dentist and hygienist for regular check-ups and polishing. Your dentist will monitor your oral health and provide any necessary treatments, and will take the utmost care if x-rays are required to protect your unborn baby from harm. If you do experience problems, such as bleeding gums or tooth pain, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible to ensure you receive the care you need.
5. Practise Good Oral Hygiene
Finally, avoid smoking and vaping (which increases the risk of gum inflammation), reduce your consumption of sugary foods and drinks, and cut out all alcohol during pregnancy. As well as having negative effects on your oral health, these habits can also cause significant harm to your growing baby.
Contact Us For First-Class Dental Care
At New Road Dental Practice, our award-winning dentists will ensure you receive the best dental care and help you to overcome the common teeth and gum problems in pregnancy. Simply arrange an appointment at a time to suit you or call us on 01527 913827 for more information.
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