Taking care of your dental health is important during pregnancy. The hormonal changes can increase your risk of developing gum disease, and in some cases, that can also affect the health of your baby. Below, the friendly dentists at the office of Larry G. Hubbard, DDS in Statesboro, GA, explain how to care for your mouth—and how not to—during your pregnancy.

Do:

See a dentist for routine checkups.

Seeing a dentist for a comprehensive exam and routine checkup will help keep your mouth healthy. Don’t forget to let your dentist know that you’re pregnant so they can offer you specific advice on caring for your teeth.

Practice proper oral hygiene.

It’s important to practice proper oral hygiene throughout your pregnancy; this includes brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Routine dental care will help to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

Don’t:

Get elective dental work.

Elective dental work such as implants or veneers should wait until after you give birth. The procedure process could strain your body and affect your ability to recover properly.

Ignore painful symptoms.

If you are experiencing tooth pain or swollen gums, it’s crucial that you see an emergency dentist right away. Infections such as abscesses can spread to the blood and throughout the rest of the body, possibly harming you and your baby.

Following the above advice will help to ensure you maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout your pregnancy. If you’re looking to set up an appointment with a dentist in Statesboro, GA, turn to the team at Larry G. Hubbard, DDS. They offer a wide range of general and cosmetic dental care services, from routine exams to implants and crowns. Call (912) 764-9891 to schedule an appointment with a dentist or visit their website for more information about their full list of treatments.