Prenatal Dental Care Checkup

Why You Should Get A Prenatal Dental Care Checkup To Benefit Your Unborn Baby

You’re busy checking off the items on your to-do list while preparing for the arrival of your baby. You’ve built the crib, maintained your health, and planned the baby shower. You’re doing everything you can to ensure the health of your baby. To secure your baby’s periodontal health, add prenatal dental care checkup to your to-do list.

A Healthy Mom Bears A Healthy Baby

Your unborn child’s dental future will be secure if you, the mother, maintain your oral health. Your hormones levels are changing due to the pregnancy, so getting a periodontal checkup is a must. According to the American Dental Association, you shouldn’t make any changes to your regular oral health care routine in spite of your pregnancy. Continue to undertake the usual dental checkup and cleaning schedule. Moreover, don’t forget to schedule your first prenatal health checkup after first learning about your pregnancy, and follow it up with a second checkup after six months.

A Few Dental Health Guidelines For Expecting Women

• Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice a day—upon waking and before bedtime.
• Use floss or mouthwash at least once a day to clean between the teeth.
• Eat fresh, healthy food instead of processed and sugary foods.
• Don’t snack much between meals.

Be Vigilant About Oral Symptoms

While pregnant, don’t ignore even the minutest of medical concerns such as a minor toothache. The slight toothache might be a symptom of an oral infection that might spread throughout your body, including your baby. Schedule an appointment with your dentist the moment you have any oral concern. According to the National Maternal and Child Oral Health Policy Center, often, gums of pregnant women tend to swell. The swelling may cause gingivitis, which leads to periodontal disease or tooth loss if left untreated. If concerned about X-rays, local anesthesia, and specific pain relievers: ask your dentist about their safe use.

Practice Good Oral Healthcare

It would be best if you actively took care of your health, including your oral health while you’re pregnant. Brush with a new toothbrush every three to four months or as soon as your old one frays. Use alcohol-free mouthwash and don’t share your toothbrush to maintain bacterial health in your mouth. Swish a solution made using 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 cup of warm water to not only prevent bad odor brought on by vomiting due to morning sickness but also protect your teeth’s enamel from acidic stomach secretions.

Your baby’s health is your primary concern. Remember that your health is intricately linked with your child, so visit your dentist as well as your obstetrician or gynecologist as often as they recommend.

Maintaining good oral health, pregnant or otherwise, is always advisable. Your dentist and other healthcare providers are the best-suited professionals to give you medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment plans about dental health. Remember: in case you suspect an oral health issue, never delay receiving treatment.