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As you review your pregnancy calendar and plan the steps to take for your baby’s arrival, be sure to give some thought to oral hygiene maintenance. The health of your teeth and gums affects the development of your baby. When you are pregnant, the hormonal make-up of your body changes, making you susceptible to gum disease. Visiting the dentist before and during your pregnancy is an important step.
Avoid Dental Treatments During Pregnancy
Mark on your pregnancy calendar to visit the dentist for regular cleanings to avoid gum disease. However, major dental procedures should be done before or after the delivery of the baby. You want to avoid dental x-rays and medications that may affect your baby’s health.
Practice Good Dental Hygiene
While it’s always a good idea to brush after meals and floss daily, it’s especially important to do so while you’re pregnant. You want to limit the amount of bacteria in your mouth that might lead to gingivitis or gum issues. Be sure to use a soft toothbrush and brush for several minutes each time. Many people do brush their teeth, but do not do so for long enough to remove the bacteria and plaque. Also, choose toothpaste with a bland taste. Flavored toothpastes may exacerbate morning sickness and should be avoided for this reason.
Avoid Sweets
Limiting your intake of sugary snacks and drinks during pregnancy is a good idea for various reasons. It will help you to avoid tooth decay. Limiting these foods in your diet will also make room for eating highly nutritious foods, such as fruits, vegetables and proteins.
