The various stages of pregnancy are an exciting experience for any woman. As you prepare for the birth of your child, maintaining excellent health is paramount. While it may become second nature to take prenatal vitamins and visit your doctor on a regular basis, you should also prioritize dental care. The best pediatric dentists always encourage expectant mothers to follow these tips to keep both them and their child healthy.

Do:

Maintain excellent oral hygiene.

Did you know pregnancy hormones often leave women more susceptible to gum disease? Having gum disease while pregnant can lead to adverse effects on your child, including low birth weight or a pre-term birth. To avoid these risks, continue your oral hygiene regimen of brushing and flossing twice a day. 

Tell your dentist.

When visiting your dentist, make sure they are aware of your pregnancy and inform them of any medications or vitamins you’re taking. They can then create an individualized treatment plan. 

Don’t:

Postpone dental appointments.

Since pregnancy hormones can increase the risk of periodontal disease, visiting your dental care office is crucial. Continue to schedule routine cleaning appointments and checkups. If you notice tenderness or red and swollen gums, schedule a visit with your dentist right away.

Forget to find a pediatric dentist.

Once a baby is born, parents are often overwhelmed with general care and health checkups. So you don’t forget about your child’s dental care later, research pediatric dentists while you’re expecting. Then when the child arrives, you’ll already have a practice you trust and their staff can remind you about your child’s first appointment and general oral health needs.

If you have a young child or you’re currently pregnant and have questions regarding your oral health, make an appointment with Pedodontic Associates. Over the more than 25 years they've served Oahu and Maui, this practice has established a reputation as one of the best pediatric dentists in Hawaii. You can trust these professionals to provide unparalleled dental care for infants, children, and adolescents. To schedule an appointment at one of their three locations, call  (808) 735-1733 for Honolulu, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, and (808) 877-0066 for Kahului. For more information about their services, visit them online.