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Pregnancy is one of the most transformative things that can happen to a woman’s body. You know to expect mood swings and weight gain, but did you know that your dental health needs will change as well? Pure Dental Health Care NY, a Manhattan-based dentist, has shared advice on maintaining stellar dental health both during and after pregnancy below.

Manhattan Dentist Shares Oral Health Advice for Expecting Mothers

1. Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Have you been told to avoid the dentist because of risks associated with X-rays and other procedures? During pregnancy, your body creates high levels of the hormone progesterone. This increase makes it easier for bacteria to grow and makes the gum tissue more sensitive to plaque and toxins. As a result, expectant mothers are at an elevated risk of developing problems like gingivitis and gum disease or periodontitis.  

Calcium deficiencies during pregnancy and while nursing can also cause oral health issues. You and your child will have an increased demand for calcium during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This substance is vital for your baby’s developing bones, especially during the last three months of pregnancy. Without the proper amount of calcium, nursing mothers can lose up to 5% of their bone mass. This puts new moms at risk for periodontal disease and gingivitis.

2. Oral Health Risks

Gingivitis is the most pressing dental issue for expecting mothers. In fact, one study found that 80% of pregnant women had gingival inflammation. Signs of pregnancy gingivitis include gums that are redder, swollen, or bleed easily when brushing or flossing.

Tender, red, or swollen gums can also be a sign of periodontal disease. Periodontitis is a chronic, bacteria-induced inflammatory condition that can affect the gum tissue and jawbone. Several studies suggest that women with gum disease are four to seven times more likely to have a premature delivery or newborn with low birth weight.

3. Treatment & Prevention

dentistPure Dental Health Care NY advises every mom-to-be to practice good oral hygiene habits, which includes brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day. They also recommend using an antimicrobial mouth rinse after meals and brushing to reduce plaque.

Make sure your body is receiving enough calcium during pregnancy and while nursing. The National Academy of Sciences recommends that expectant or nursing mothers consume 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily. Some excellent sources of calcium include low-fat dairy products like milk, yogurt and cheese, dark leafy vegetables like broccoli and spinach, tofu, almonds, and salmon.

Regular checkups and teeth cleanings help mitigate these risks during pregnancy. Sitting in a dentist’s chair might become more uncomfortable during the later stages of pregnancy, so try to schedule appointments during your first two trimesters.

For a healthy pregnancy and newborn, speak with the team at Pure Dental Care NY. Their trusted dentist provides a range of dental procedures for patients of all ages, from routine teeth cleanings to complex cosmetic dentistry treatments. Call them today at (212) 256 1292 to schedule your next appointment or visit their website for more information.  

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