While everyone knows they need to take better care of themselves during pregnancy, some women are less aware they must see a dentist in Oshawa regularly. Good oral care is important at any time of life, but especially while you are pregnant. This is because hormonal levels change drastically during pregnancy, increasing the potential risk of developing gum disease, a condition that can affect the health of your unborn child.
Come and See Us before You Get Pregnant
In an ideal world, we would like to see you before you get pregnant so we can check your dental health and clean your teeth professionally. If you do have any small dental issues, we can treat these before you become pregnant. However, we know life doesn’t always work out that way, so if you are already pregnant, make sure you see a dentist in Whitby soon.
Receiving Dental Care Safely While Pregnant
When you come to see us, let us know if you are expecting or if there is any chance you could be pregnant. During pregnancy, routine dental care is safe at any time, and often we can complete any urgent procedures as well. However, it’s best to postpone any elective dental treatments, such as cosmetic dentistry and teeth whitening treatments, until you have your baby. Our dentist will want to know the details of any drugs or prenatal vitamins prescribed by your OB/GYN and any specific instructions you may have received, in case we need to alter your treatment plan in any way.
If you need dental x-rays, we will make sure you and your baby remain safe, shielding your thyroid and abdomen. Modern digital dental x-rays are far safer than older style film x-rays, and it can be far preferable to diagnose and treat any dental problems such as a dental infection that could harm you both.
Regular Checkups and Cleanings Are Even More Critical
Your regular checkups and cleanings are even more important than before because of the hormonal changes during pregnancy. As your hormone levels change, your gum tissue becomes more sensitive to the bacteria that cause gum disease. These changes increase your risk of developing pregnancy gingivitis, a type of gum disease where your gums bleed more easily.
We can check your gums for inflammation, and regularly cleaning your teeth removes the bacteria that can cause pregnancy gingivitis. If your risk of getting pregnancy gingivitis is higher or if you already have signs of gum disease in Ajax, we may suggest you have your teeth cleaned more frequently.
Coping with Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is a common problem, and some women find the taste of their toothpaste is unpleasant during pregnancy, making it tricky to clean their teeth. If this affects you, choose a more neutral-tasting toothpaste, and ask us for advice about which brands to consider.
After morning sickness, rinse out your mouth with water but wait at least half an hour before you brush your teeth. Because your teeth are exposed to strong stomach acid, the tooth enamel is softer and more easily damaged when you brush your teeth immediately. Waiting a while allows pH levels to rise and become more neutral, and your tooth enamel will gradually re-harden so it won’t be damaged when you brush your teeth. Keep a small travel dental kit with you that includes a bottle of water, toothbrush and toothpaste, and if you like to use mouthwash, choose a brand with fluoride.
When you have a healthy mouth, it protects your baby. Otherwise, you can quickly pass on harmful bacteria to them whenever you kiss them, lick a pacifier before giving it back to them or share utensils.
