During pregnancy, a woman’s oral health changes and needs to be monitored and treated. It is vital in all stages of pregnancy to keep on top of one’s oral health as it can have lasting effects after pregnancy. Below we have listed different stages of pregnancy and what happens during each stage. We also provide suggestions on how to keep your mouth healthy and clean.
Before Pregnancy
Before becoming pregnant, it is still very important to stay up on top of one’s oral health. Making sure your gums and teeth are strong and healthy will make for a smoother pregnancy. Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and receiving any dental work that may need to be done prior to pregnancy is best done at this time.
First Trimester
During the first trimester it is best to let your dentist know you are pregnant as well as keep away from any dental work. During this trimester, hormones will change dramatically, causing inflammation of the gum tissue or pregnancy gingivitis. If morning sickness is accompanied with your first trimester, do not immediately brush teeth after vomiting. Rinse your mouth first with water or use a fluoride mouth wash. If teeth brushing is a trigger for sickness, brush your teeth with a soft brush and use a bland toothpaste. It is also important to remember that a baby’s teeth form in the first trimester, so whatever you eat will be affecting their developing teeth.
Second Trimester
Transitioning into the second trimester, dental work is safe to resume back to. This is the time you will be experiencing more cravings then usual, BUT make sure to avoid any sugary foods and opt for natural sugars, such as fruits that contain vitamin c, calcium and B12; this helps the baby’s teeth form and stay strong. During this stage in pregnancy, women are also prone to developing gum abscesses because of the hormonal changes still occurring.
Third Trimester
The third trimester is similar to the first trimester as in avoiding dental procedures. However, it is still important to maintain proper oral hygiene and brush teeth twice a day along with flossing.
After Pregnancy and During Nursing
Soon after delivery, one should have a dental checkup; X-rays, nitrous oxide and local anesthetics are safe while breastfeeding.
- Caring for your Baby’s Teeth
- Wipe your baby’s gums after each feeding
- When their first tooth erupts, smear a very small amount of fluoridated toothpaste at least two times a day on it
- Early cavities are typically caused by germs from milk, formula or any sugary juices
- Never put your baby to bed with milk or juice
- Keep their bottles out of crib
- Maintain good oral hygiene for your baby by avoiding sharing tableware or food to stop the spreading of germs
About Johnson Family Dentistry – Orlando, FL
At Johnson Family Dentistry, we are a dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile using conservative, state-of-the-art procedures that will result in beautiful, long, lasting smiles. We are conveniently located next to Publix Super Market in The Shoppes at Eastwood. Contact us Today at (407) 282-0002.
Our Services include the following; Bonding, Crowns & Bridgework, Dental Implants, Fillings, General and Cosmetic Dentistry, Oral Cancer Screenings, Periodontal (Gum) Disease Therapy, Porcelain Veneers, Professional Teeth Cleanings, Removable Dentures, Root Canal Treatment, Sealants, Teeth Whitening, TMJ/TMD Treatment, and Tooth Extractions.
