With all the other doctor appointments you have to keep while you’re pregnant, visiting the dentist might not seem like a priority when you’re expecting. However, pregnancy can affect your teeth and gums, so it’s essential to practice proper dental care habits during this time.

Maintaining Dental Care While Pregnant

Why You Should Brush

When you’re expecting, hormonal changes can increase the amount of bacteria in your mouth and affect the way your gums respond to it. You may experience bleeding, swelling, or tenderness in your gums, a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis, which may cause low birth weight.

How Morning Sickness Could Be Harmful

Morning sickness leaves acid on your teeth that can erode your enamel and lead to decay. After a bout of morning sickness, rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash to clear away the extra acid. If the smell of your toothpaste makes you nauseous and causes you to avoid brushing your teeth, consider brushing with a mixture of baking soda and water. You could also ask your family dentist to recommend a bland-flavored toothpaste.

What Dental Procedures Are Safe

While pregnant, you should continue to follow your normal schedule for routine dental appointments. You can receive urgent dental treatments, such as tooth extraction and root canal therapy, during pregnancy; however, it’s a wise idea to wait until after delivery for cosmetic procedures. If you need dental X-rays while you’re expecting, your dentist will take extra protective measures to shield your abdomen and thyroid from the rays.

With offices in Honolulu and Pearl City, HI, Oahu Dental Care offers a wide range of quality dentistry services for the whole family. Whether you need a routine dental exam, braces, or dentures, their team has the experience and skill to provide you with personalized and affordable dental care. Visit their website to learn more about their services, and when you’re ready to schedule a dentist appointment, call their Honolulu office at (808) 732-2821 or their Pearl City location at (808) 456-5005.