Pregnancy is a wonderful period in a woman’s life when the awareness of the importance of health and body care increases. During pregnancy, the level of hormones in the body increases, which brings with it numerous changes, but also possible problems. We bring you some useful tips to keep you teeth in pregnancy healthy and bright.
Why oral hygiene is especially important in pregnancy
Taking care of the cleanliness and health of teeth and gums during pregnancy should be one of the priorities. Proper and regular oral hygiene is actually the best way to prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease. Brush your teeth carefully twice a day for two minutes. Use fluoride toothpaste and softer toothbrushes with a small head, because the gums can be especially sensitive during pregnancy. If you are not sure whether you are successfully removing dental plaque for tooth surfaces, consult your dentist for advice.
Use dental floss
Using dental floss at least once a day can help you keep your teeth clean. You can use floss to remove food debris between your teeth that the brush does not reach. If you use mouthwash, choose one that does not contain alcohol.
Avoid sugary foods and drinks
Avoid drinking sugary drinks such as fizzy drinks or sweetened tea too often. It is also advisable not to eat sweets and snacks. If you feel hungry between meals, do not reach for biscuits or chocolate. Rather, eat some fruit, fresh vegetables or drink a cup of yogurt.
No cigarettes in pregnancy
If you are a smoker, quit smoking. Smoking leaves negative consequences on the health of pregnant women and babies. This includes an increased risk of gingivitis and periodontitis.
Teeth and morning sickness
Morning sickness and vomiting are not friends of the teeth. Be sure to rinse your mouth with plain water after vomiting. In this way, you will remove the acid, prevent the growth of bacteria and thus save your teeth from possible damage.
Brushing your teeth immediately after vomiting while your teeth are still covered with stomach acid is not recommended. This is because the strong action of the brush in combination with the acid can damage the enamel. Postpone brushing your teeth for at least an hour.
With proper hygiene at home and the professional help of your dentist, your teeth should stay healthy during pregnancy.
Tooth loss in pregnancy is a myth
One of the biggest myths about teeth and pregnancy is the one about terrible tooth loss. It is very important to say that pregnancy does not automatically damage your teeth. The story about how the baby draws all the calcium from the mother’s teeth, and that they spoil and fall out because of that, is not true. In fact, if the mother’s calcium intake is not enough during pregnancy, her bones – not her teeth – will provide the amount that the baby needs in the womb. This loss of calcium is quickly compensated after stopping breastfeeding.
