Dental Health During Pregnancy
Proper and consistent oral care is important for everyone and the same holds true for pregnant women. Maintaining dental health is absolutely crucial during pregnancy as it is not only vital for you, but for the health of your unborn baby, too.
Your dental routine should be to brush your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush twice per day using fluoride toothpaste and remember to floss daily. If morning sickness (vomiting) makes it difficult to brush, rinse your mouth with a combination of one teaspoon of baking soda mixed into one cup of water. Ask your OB/GYN doctor if you can take antacids as well. Be certain to stick to a healthy diet and avoid sweets and other junk foods as much as possible. A baby’s teeth begin to develop between three and six months of pregnancy. Essential nutrients such as protein, phosphorus, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and D assist in their healthy formation as well as supply many other benefits for your baby’s growth. And, please, do not smoke!!!
Dental checkups every six months during pregnancy are important so that your dentist can find and treat dental concerns in their early stages. Adhering to recommended teeth cleanings is advantageous to your oral health as well. Always inform your dentist if you’re pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant. Furthermore, it is paramount that you let your dentist know if your pregnancy is high-risk. Supply your dentist with a list of your current prescribed and over-the-counter medications, herbal products, and any supplements you are taking.
Pregnant women often wonder if it is safe to get dental x-rays and the answer is yes, it is. Just inform your dental staff that you are pregnant or in the process of trying to become pregnant so that your dentist is well-aware prior to authorizing any x-rays.
See your dentist as soon as possible if you notice frequent bad breath, sores in your mouth, bumps on your gums, bleeding or receding gums, tooth or mouth pain, a loose tooth or teeth, new gaps between your teeth, or any other changes in your mouth. Let your dentist know if you're pregnant so that he or she can provide safe methods of treatment for you such as pain relievers, antibiotics, or local anesthesia. Remember, always speak with your OB/GYN provider and get the green light before you take any medication or are given anesthesia.
Dr. Lattinelli’s dental practice is located at 121 East 60th Street in Manhattan and you may arrange an appointment by calling (212) 752-7188. We are a respected establishment in the community due to our professionalism, care, and concern for all of our patients.