Pregnancy and Dental Care

During their pregnancy, many women start taking extra care of their bodies and health. However, very few are aware of the fact that it is also important to take care of your teeth and gum health during pregnancy. Poor dental health has often been linked with preterm births.

In this article, our team at Allure Dental in Fulton, Maryland, shares a few important tips on how to maintain good oral health during pregnancy. 

Before You Plan Your Pregnancy 

Dental checkups are necessary to avoid future complications. You should visit your dentist before planning to have a baby so that they can conduct a general examination, address any dental concerns, and guide you for home-based care as well. 

Routine checkups enable you to identify and treat dental health problems before you are pregnant thereby reducing the risk of possible health complications for you and your baby.

During Your Pregnancy

You should continue your dental care routine, including getting regular checkups, during your pregnancy. Regular dental examinations become even more important during this period as gum diseases like pregnancy gingivitis are a common occurrence. 

It's also very important to inform your dentist about your pregnancy. Based on that information, the dentist may decide to alter certain procedures. You should also postpone any elective dental procedures until after you have given birth. 

Make sure to inform your dentist about any medication you may be taking, including prenatal vitamins and any special medical advice you are supposed to follow. This will help your dentist decide which dental treatments and medications are suitable for you. 

Keep your gum health in check at home. If you see any signs of bleeding, swelling, or pain, speak to your dentist. 

It is essential to follow good oral hygiene practices during your pregnancy. Brushing at least twice a day, flossing once a day, and using a mouth rinse as per the advice of your dentist are some of the basic things to include in your dental routine.

Food cravings are very common during pregnancy, especially for sweet snacks. Try to limit eating these foods as they can increase your risk of tooth decay. 

Call Allure Dental at (240) 456-0717 for any queries relating to pregnancy and dental care. You can also visit us at 8170 Maple Lawn Blvd Suite 150, Fulton, MD 20759.