Dental visits while you are Pregnant

Dental experts recommend visiting a dentist for a check-up if you are planning to become pregnant or as soon as you find out you are pregnant. Your dentist can assess your oral health and determine how frequently you need to be seen. Emergency dental care to treat pain can be carried out at any stage but non-emergency dental procedures are best performed in the second trimester when it is most comfortable.  Be sure to tell your dentist if you are pregnant before having treatment.

Good Nutrition Is Important for Mother and Baby

Maintaining good nutrition during pregnancy is important for the health of both mother and baby. Your baby’s teeth begin to develop during the second trimester of pregnancy. Be sure to get plenty of nutrients (calcium, protein, phosphorous, Vitamins A, C and D) from foods and prenatal vitamins that your doctor may recommend.

Calcium and Your Teeth

The calcium your baby needs is provided by what you eat, not by your teeth. It is a myth that calcium from your teeth will be lost during pregnancy. If you do not take in enough calcium, your body will use calcium stored in your bones, not from your teeth, to help your baby grow, so be sure to eat a healthy and nutritious diet.

After Your Baby Arrives

Did you know that babies who nap or sleep at night with a bottle containing anything, but plain water can develop baby bottle tooth decay? This happens when sugary liquids pool around an infant’s or toddler’s teeth and gums for long periods. Even liquids that are good for the baby, such as milk, formula, breast milk and fruit juices contain natural sugars that can promote decay. Resist the temptation to allow your baby to fall asleep with a bottle containing a sweet or sugary liquid.

Caring for Your Baby’s Teeth

Starting at birth, clean your baby’s gums with a damp, soft cloth or gauze pad after each feeding. Begin brushing your baby’s teeth with a small soft toothbrush as soon as the first tooth erupts, usually around six months. Continue cleaning gums in the toothless areas. Your child should have their first visit to the dentist around the time of their first birthday.

Dental Health Habits

• Visit your dentist for a check-up if you are planning to become pregnant or as soon as you find out you are pregnant. Be sure to tell your dentist if you’re pregnant.
• Tell your dentist about changes in your medical history, about medications or if you have bleeding gums.
• Use a toothpaste with 1450 parts per million fluoride and drink fluoridated water.
• Brush twice daily and clean between your teeth with dental floss or interdental brushes.
• Have healthy nutrition; eat a balanced diet and limit in-between meal snacks of high sugar-containing foods. Drink water instead of soft drinks or sugary drinks.
• Do not use tobacco products in any form.