Good Oral Health Can Help You Maintain a Healthy Pregnancy

While pregnancy can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be challenging. Pregnant women suffer from a range of health problems, such as cramps, heartburn, backache, constipation, indigestion, urinary frequency, and other issues. 

Although these problems are challenging enough, pregnant women also adopt lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy pregnancy. They may avoid consuming raw protein, fish with high mercury content, soft cheeses, high levels of caffeine, any alcohol or tobacco. They also stay away from kitty litter, certain medicines, and toxic substances.

However, many people don’t realize the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene during pregnancy. When excess bacteria from the mouth of a pregnant woman enters her bloodstream through her gums, it can travel to the uterus and initiate the growth of prostaglandins. These chemicals may result in premature labor. What’s more, such bacteria can also pass on to the baby.

Pregnant mothers with an oral infection known as periodontitis are also known to deliver babies with low birth weight. If you’re a pregnant mother, then make sure that you brush your teeth twice a day daily for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and drink fluoridated water. 

What’s more, reduce your consumption of acidic and sugary drinks and foods high in sodium, sugars, and saturated fats. Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, wholegrain foods, and other items that are a good source of protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, and phosphorus. Multivitamins such as folic acid and iron are also a good idea. Food that contains calcium will not only help your oral health by initiating the remineralization of your tooth enamel but ensure that your growing baby develops stronger teeth. 

Drinking water instead of other drinks is advisable. While brushing every day will improve your oral hygiene, a toothbrush can’t remove all food from your mouth. Water can wash away leftover food. It also strengthens your teeth by exposing them to fluoride, calcium, and phosphate. The regular consumption of water also prevents dry mouth, which increases the chances of tooth decay. 

Also, find a good family dentist who is professional, experienced, and friendly. They will improve your oral hygiene by removing leftover plaque before it hardens into tartar and results in tooth decay or gum disease. Both diseases can affect your pregnancy. They can also offer important advice.

Not only is it important for a pregnant woman to see a good family dentist, but it’s vital for the oral health of your family. You can check this out to learn about an excellent dental clinic that treats the elderly, adults, and children. 

It’s important to take your child to a family dentist within the first six months of their tooth eruption. They will help you learn more about how to improve your baby’s oral hygiene. It’s important to start early by cleaning their gums and tooth with a damp soft and clean cloth between feedings. A good family dentist will make sure their oral hygiene is good by maintaining records and watching out for potential issues, such as orthodontic concerns. 

Many children feel anxious during a dental appointment because they didn’t start seeing a dentist until they were older. Others develop anxiety because they’ve been treated by inexperienced dentists. That’s why it’s advisable to find a family dentist who is passionate about treating kids. They will take care of you before and after your pregnancy.