Dental Health
Healthy teeth and gums help your overall health and well-being. See your dentist before you start trying to become pregnant to talk about your dental care needs. Dental care is important before, during, and after pregnancy.
Healthy teeth and gums help your overall health and well-being. See your dentist before you start trying to become pregnant to talk about your dental care needs. Dental care is important before, during, and after pregnancy.
Good oral health is an important part of a healthy pregnancy.
If possible, make a dental appointment before you plan to get pregnant. At this appointment your teeth can be professionally cleaned, gum tissue can be examined, and any oral health problems can be treated in advance of your pregnancy.
If you have questions about your oral health, talk with your dentist or dental hygienist.
Dental care is considered safe at any time during pregnancy. You may be more comfortable during your second trimester.
Tell your dentist or dental hygienist that you’re pregnant. They will work with you to create a dental care plan to help you prevent pregnancy gingivitis and tooth decay and to deal with any other dental concerns.
Learn more about oral health during pregnancy here.
Oral health problems that may occur during pregnancy include:
Pregnancy gingivitis: gums that are red, swollen, bleed easily, and are tender to touch. Changes in hormones during pregnancy may put you at an increased risk of gingivitis.
Periodontitis: untreated gingivitis may lead to periodontitis – a more serious and advanced inflammation of the gums and the bones that support the teeth.
Pyogenic Granuloma: lumps along the gumline that are generally harmless, but they can make it difficult to keep your teeth clean. These lumps typically go away after the baby is born.
Xerostomia: dryness of the mouth may occur due to changes in hormones during pregnancy which can impact your oral health.
Tooth decay: the risk of developing tooth decay may increase due to frequent sipping and snacking on sugary drinks and foods.
Tooth erosion: a type of wear on your teeth that may be more common during pregnancy due to gastric acid exposure from morning sickness.
Talk with your dentist if you have concerns about the health of your mouth or gums.
Daily mouth care habits are an important part of good oral health.
For good oral health:
If you have morning sickness wait at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth. You can rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water and then spit it out. If you don’t have baking soda, rinse with water.
In addition, continue to see your dentist regularly or schedule an extra appointment if you have concerns.
Learn more about food and nutrition and tobacco.
If you need help finding a dentist visit:
If you need help getting dental care:
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