Prioritizing wellness during pregnancy keeps you and your baby healthy. Dental care is one of the essential components of prenatal health, so it’s important to talk to your dentist throughout your pregnancy. Here are some basic tips for keeping your teeth healthy through every trimester.  

Do:

Tell your dentist that you’re pregnant.

Once you find out that you’re pregnant, make a routine appointment with your dentist and discuss your changing health needs. They can go over any special care instructions to keep your teeth healthy during pregnancy. Dentists will also take special precautions during tests like x-rays. You should discuss any medications that you’re taking since certain prescriptions can affect your oral health.

Eat a calcium-rich diet.

A healthy diet is essential for your baby’s growth, and including enough calcium can help your baby’s teeth develop. Their teeth will start developing in the skeleton following the first trimester. Foods like leafy greens and dairy products will keep your teeth strong and set a foundation for your baby’s oral wellness. 

Don’t:

Forget to brush and floss.

Pregnant women are often more at risk for gum disease since hormonal shifts can cause changes in the mouth. Some pregnant women will experience “pregnancy gingivitis,” which causes swelling, tenderness, and even bleeding. Brushing and flossing thoroughly can prevent these issues, as can regular cleanings at the dentist’s office.

Schedule non-essential procedures.

If you’re experiencing dental discomfort or oral swelling, see your dentist. Treatments like fillings will prevent oral infections and protect your baby. However, it’s generally best to wait until after birth to schedule non-essential treatments. This includes procedures like teeth whitening. According to the American Pregnancy Association, you should avoid any procedures that could cause you discomfort or present any risk to your developing baby. Talk to your OBGYN and dentist if you have any concerns.

A healthy mouth is key to a healthy pregnancy, and the team at Valley Family Dentistry, PLLC in Mayfield, NY, will help you enjoy dental wellness before and after your baby is born. Our professionals have offered quality dental care for over 28 years. Dentists Dr. Victoria Milward and Dr. William Hassan offer routine cleanings, root canal therapy, crowns, bridges, implant restoration, composite fillings, and more. You can also talk to us about oral cancer screenings and sleep apnea devices. To learn more about our services, visit us online today. Call (518) 661-6405 to make an appointment.