Most expectant mothers are focused on what’s happening with their baby — not what’s happening with their teeth. But that doesn’t mean that you should put dental care on the back burner throughout your pregnancy. Women are more likely to experience oral health issues when they have a baby on the way. To help keep your body — and your developing baby — healthy, here’s what dentists want patients to know about protecting their teeth and gums during pregnancy.

A Brief Guide to Pregnancy & Dental Care

Oral Health Problems Associated With Pregnancy

Hormonal changes increase blood flow within gums, and in turn, raise your risk of gingivitis. Gingivitis can cause red, swollen, tender, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, the problem can advance into a serious infection of the gums known as periodontal disease.

Women who are expecting may also develop pregnancy tumors — small growths of tissue on the gum that develop due to increased plaque exposure. Typically, these growths will dissipate after pregnancy, but they can be removed by a dentist if they cause discomfort.

Tooth decay is another common problem experienced during pregnancy. This risk occurs as a result of increased exposure to stomach acids due to morning sickness. Calcium deficiency may also cause teeth to weaken and become more susceptible to cavities.

How Pregnant Women can Protect Their Oral Health

Brushing twice a day and flossing daily is essential to control plaque and prevent cavities and gingivitis. To benefit from professional teeth cleanings and oral exams, don’t skip routine dentist appointments. Additionally, schedule a check-up after you’ve given birth to ensure you don’t need fillings or periodontal therapy.

If you have cravings, try to avoid sweet foods and beverages, as the sugars they contain can contribute to cavity development. Also, consume more dairy to ensure your teeth have enough calcium to stay strong. When morning sickness happens, rinse your mouth with water immediately and wait about 30 minutes to brush. If you brush too soon, you may only intensify the abrasive actions of stomach acid.

Dental Appointments During Pregnancy

Visiting a dentist is safe for pregnant women. Oral x-rays are also safe, as they are not affiliated with any adverse effects on the developing baby. Treating oral health problems — such as cavities or root canal infections — is also safe and can help you avoid issues that may complicate the pregnancy. To minimize unnecessary stress, postpone cosmetic treatments — such as teeth whitening — until after you’ve had the baby.

Whether you’re pregnant or a new mother, Amison Dental Group has state-of-the-art solutions to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Using digital x-rays, intraoral cameras, and advanced techniques, this Canton, OH, dentist will comfortably guide you through the exam and cleaning process, as well as provide safe treatment for common concerns. For more details on these services, visit this general  dentistry practice  online. To schedule a convenient appointment, call (330) 452-2255.