Are you pregnant but not prioritising your oral health?
In this article we discuss why maintaining your oral health during pregnancy is so important and how the experienced, friendly team at Bald Hills Dental can help.
Why Is Maintaining Your Oral Health During Pregnancy So Important?
At Bald Hills Dental, we know we’re not everyone’s favourite people. So we understand why regular dental check ups during pregnancy might not be a priority.
While maintaining your oral health is something everyone should do, it’s of particular importance if you’re pregnant. Here we’ll discuss why:
Gum Disease
Research suggests that pregnant women are more prone to gum disease due to elevated progesterone levels. Untreated gum diseases like gingivitis can cause infections and long term oral issues for both you and your baby. There are even links between gum disease and premature birth.
Pregnancy Tumours
We know that seeing the words ‘pregnancy’ and tumours may send you into a tailspin, but don’t worry!
Pregnancy epulis (otherwise known as pregnancy tumours) usually appear in the second trimester and are benign. They are caused by excess plaque and bleed easily, which makes them very uncomfortable.
While they often disappear once you’ve given birth, they can sometimes hang around, which is why you should seek professional advice from your dentist.
Nausea & Vomiting
Morning sickness and increased feelings of nausea are commonplace while pregnant. But prolonged vomiting can cause your teeth to erode – and potentially even result in a lack of nutrients – which is why you need to take extra care of your oral health.
Cravings
Craving sugary or acidic treats whilst pregnant? This may seem harmless but you could be doing long term damage to your teeth. As such you should avoid or limit your intake of:
– sugary drinks like soft drinks or fruit juice
– sports drinks
– alcohol
– sweets and lollies
– chocolate
– cake
– dried fruit
– coffee
Sensitivity & Fatigue
Pregnant women may see a decrease in their levels of energy, which may result in neglecting certain hygiene measures such as brushing your teeth. Some even experience a more sensitive gag reflex, which can make brushing your teeth difficult.
It is for this reason that you should have regular dental check ups during pregnancy and discuss sensitivity solutions with your dentist.
Calcium & Vitamin D Requirements
When you’re pregnant, your need for calcium and vitamin D increases – both for the sake of your own health and that of your unborn child.
To make sure you are receiving enough calcium in your diet, we suggest eating the following foods (under the guidance of your dentist and GP):
– milk
– yoghurt
– salmon
– soy
– almonds
– broccoli
– baked beans
– kale
– spinach
– tofu
Is Visiting the Dentist While Pregnant Safe?
Of course! We wouldn’t be recommending you visit your dentist if doing so whilst pregnant wasn’t safe.
You should always advise your dentist if you are – or think you may be – pregnant as it may change how we perform your check ups and allow us to provide you with effective treatments.
How Bald Hills Dental Can Help
At Bald Hills Dental, we specialise in a range of general dentistry and orthodontic services, and have the knowhow to assist you with your oral health during pregnancy.
We’re committed to making our patients feel as comfortable as possible during their dental check ups or procedures and take extra care with children or those who find themselves anxious with the process.
To book in for your maternity oral health check up, contact the professional team at Bald Hills Dental today.