Your Dentist in Renton: Oral Care Tips to Consider During Pregnancy
Having a child can be a very exciting experience. Moments like picking out baby clothes and a crib with your significant other should always be cherished. However, with pregnancy comes the typical symptoms. Morning sickness is tough to deal with, but did you know that your oral health is at risk as well? Even worse, having poor oral health has been associated with premature delivery and intrauterine growth restriction.
To keep your mouth healthy and your delivery without problems, consider these tips from your dentist in Renton.
Commit to Daily Oral Care
Brushing twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste and flossing daily are already important. However, it’s even more so the case when you’re pregnant, not just for your own health, but for the health of your future child as well. In addition, you’ll want to prepare for pregnancy gingivitis if it appears. This mild form of gum disease usually occurs because of hormone changes making your gums more vulnerable to dental plaque.
How to Protect Teeth After Morning Sickness
According to your dentist, stomach acid can easily damage teeth after morning sickness occurs, so you’ll need to take the right steps to prevent it. Avoid brushing your teeth right after vomiting. Your teeth are already softened from the acid, so brushing right after will wear down enamel more quickly. Instead, rinse your mouth out with a solution made up of one cup of water and one teaspoon of baking soda. After swishing the mixture around your mouth, wait 30 minutes until brushing.
When to See Your Dentist
Not only is it safe to see your dentist during pregnancy, it’s actually recommended that you see him more often. They may suggest you visit for more cleanings during your second and third trimester to control gingivitis. You’ll also be glad to know that X-rays, cavity fillings, and crown placements are all safe during pregnancy. Hold off on cosmetic treatments and try to schedule appointments in the second trimester to make them more comfortable.
Keeping Your Baby’s Teeth Healthy
Your baby’s teeth will begin developing between the third and sixth months of pregnancy. This means you’ll want to make sure your eating a diet that promotes healthy dental formation. Nutrients like vitamin A, C, D, protein, calcium, and phosphorous all promote healthy teeth and bone development. Folic acid works to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. You’ll also want to drink water treated with fluoride to keep teeth strong.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to protect both your teeth and the teeth of your new child. We hope you schedule an appointment with your dentist in Renton today!
About the Author
Dr. Sam DK Kim has three children of his own, so he’s well prepared to help other families in the Renton community protect their teeth when a new baby is on the way. He loves being able to provide a comprehensive list of dental services to patients of all ages. To learn more about his practice, education, or experience, contact him at (253) 277-8767 or visit his website.
