Pregnancy can be incredibly grueling, especially if you are living with severe morning sickness or other complications. However, ignoring your teeth can be a recipe for disaster, especially since some aspects of pregnancy can impact your smile. Here are a few essential do’s and don’ts regarding dental health during pregnancy and how your local dentist can help. 

Do: 

Brush and floss carefully. 

When you are pregnant, your body develops higher levels of certain hormones like estrogen, which can prompt inflammation and gum disease. In fact, up to 70% of pregnant women live with pregnancy-related gingivitis, which is why careful attention to oral healthcare is so important. To prevent issues, brush and floss carefully during your pregnancy, and report any issues with swollen, red, or inflamed gums to your dentist. 

Continue to visit your dentist. 

While many women fear that undergoing dental procedures will harm their unborn baby, the research has shown that necessary dental work, such as receiving filling and crowns, is not only safe but also recommended during pregnancy. Since issues with dental decay can cause systemic infections, continue to visit with your local dentist regularly and be open about the fact that you are expecting. 

Don’t: 

Brush immediately following morning sickness. 

While it can seem tempting to brush your teeth immediately following morning sickness, doing so could cause acid-related enamel erosion, since the acids produced while throwing up can soften dental enamel. To stay on the safe side, swish your mouth with water, and wait at least 30 minutes to give your mouth the chance to regulate the pH of your saliva again. 

Ignore problems. 

Dental issues during pregnancy can actually impact the health of your unborn baby, so never ignore issues. For instance, oral bacteria can move into your bloodstream from your smile, prompting inflammation that could trigger the release of prostaglandins, which can induce early labor. Keep an eye on your teeth and gums, and let your local dentist know if you notice anything new. 

Promote dental care from an early age with your new baby by working with Brandi Prather, DMD, PSC in Somerset, KY. As an experienced pediatric and local dentist, Dr. Prather can help with everything from checkups for the entire family to emergency treatment for serious dental emergencies. Learn more about how she can help by visiting her practice online or calling her office at (606) 679-5437.