Taking Care of Your Oral Health During Pregnancy
Being pregnant comes with many responsibilities—and oral hygiene is no exception.
For most women, routine dental visits are safe during pregnancy, but let your dental office know what month you are in when making your appointment.
If you have a high-risk pregnancy or other medical condition, your dentist and physician may recommend postponing treatment.
Tell your dentist about any changes in medications, any special advice from your physician and changes in your mouth, such as swelling, redness and bleeding. The benefits of receiving dental care during pregnancy far outweigh potential risks.
When pregnant:
- Brush thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste that has the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance.
- Floss between teeth daily.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Visit your dentist regularly for a professional exam and cleaning.
- To help control plaque, your dentist may recommend rinsing at night with an antimicrobial mouth rinse.
- If you suffer from morning sickness or frequent vomiting, try rinsing out your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with tap water. Avoid brushing teeth immediately after vomiting when stomach acids have come into contact with teeth and can erode tooth enamel.
Visit WDA.org to learn more about oral health during pregnancy.
Source: WDA Patient Newsletter