Pregnancy is a joyful and often stressful journey that requires a lot of self-care, and in many instances, a total lifestyle change. Oral health is important, and a lot of people tend to neglect it until something bad happens. Fear of the dentist is one of the most common fears out there, but since pregnancy requires you to be extra careful regarding your general health, it’s important to be mindful when it comes to your oral health. So here are some helpful tips that will show you how to take good care of your oral health while expecting.
Prevention is the key
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If you’re working on conceiving, then it’s also crucial to take some preventative measures to ensure dental health before you get pregnant. So, regular visits to your dentist are a must, mainly if you’ve been experiencing dental issues for a long time. Also, if you’re having naturally sensitive teeth, then prevention is even more important. Since certain dental procedures aren’t advisable during pregnancy, then it’s essential to make sure that everything’s fine during pregnancy.
Be mindful of what you eat and drink
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Sure, pregnancy cravings are the real thing, but if you want to take good care of your oral health, you should be mindful of what you consume. If possible, try to curb your cravings, and if possible, replace them with healthier alternatives that will be beneficial for your and your baby’s health. Sugary drinks such as sodas and sweets might be comforting, but they’re not that good for your teeth and gums as they cause tooth decay, and possibly even infections. All of that can also be detrimental to a baby’s health. Limiting your consumption of such foods and drinks is a great idea, as it lowers the risk of dental issues, especially during pregnancy.
Establish a good oral care routine
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The oral routine can save you from a lot of trouble, so make sure to establish one that fits your lifestyle. Some pregnant women tend to experience sensitive and swollen gums, so it’s essential to continue with your routine despite the discomfort. Also, if you happen to have an increased gag reflex, that also means you might also have trouble flossing. But flossing is crucial for dental health as it prevents food from being stuck in between your teeth. Regular check-ups are also a must, so be sure to find a reliable dental laboratory that will accommodate your needs and provide you with the best service. Finally, keep in mind that using a mouthwash after brushing is the surest way to have a fresh and nice breath.
Consume more calcium-rich foods and drinks
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Calcium is one of the healthiest and most important nutrients out there, especially when it comes to teeth and bone health. This is because calcium helps strengthen the enamel or the harder outer layer of your teeth. Milk and dairy products are the best and richest calcium sources, but in case you’re experiencing lactose intolerance during pregnancy, you can always consume seeds, sardines, salmon, leafy greens, and almonds. They’re all highly nutritious, and rich in calcium and other valuable nutrients.
Prevent dry mouth from happening
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Dry mouth is a common occurrence during pregnancy, and it can be detrimental to your teeth. Tooth decay, bad breath, and cavities might be the cause of dry mouth, so if you’re looking to prevent that, it’s important to drink enough water, chew sugar-free gums, use a dry mouth mouthwash, and get a humidifier at night, that will relieve the unpleasant symptoms while you sleep. Staying hydrated is great for your health, and it can also benefit your gums and teeth.
Postpone less important dental work until you give birth
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Teeth whitening and other cosmetic dental work should be postponed after you give birth. However, some dental procedures such as cavities and fillings, or dental emergencies are best done during the second trimester. The third trimester is too risky and doing any dental work can be unsafe both for you and your baby.
Conclusion
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Oral health is hugely important, especially during pregnancy. These tips will help you take good care of your mouth, gums, and teeth. As long as you have a dental care routine, eat a healthy diet and live an active lifestyle, your teeth will be healthy while you’re pregnant.
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