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Good hygiene practices ensure that we have healthy gums and teeth. Proper oral care becomes even more essential during pregnancy because the hormonal changes in your body tend to affect the gums.
Bleeding gums, or pregnancy gingivitis, is the most common oral problem associated with pregnancy. This is caused by tartar and plaque built up in the gums. Thorough scaling and polishing can remove these irritants, controlling or even preventing bleeding gums. Proper care also needs to be followed through at home, brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily.
Hence, routine dental check-up and cleaning are recommended to maintain good oral health, particularly during the 4th or 8th month of pregnancy when bleeding gums most often occur.
Research has also shown that uncontrolled gum disease, or periodontitis, increases the risk of pre-term (premature) birth. Therefore, it is imperative for pregnant mothers to schedule regular dental check-ups to ensure that your mouth is healthy.
Another dental problem that pregnant mothers may face is the erosion of the dental enamel, especially if you experience morning sickness. Frequent vomiting can cause wear to the dental enamel, and overtime it can lead to sensitivity. If you have a reaction towards brushing with regular toothpaste, you can substitute with brushing with a wet toothbrush or using a bland, non-foaming toothpaste.
If you have any outstanding dental procedures or surgeries, it is also recommended to complete them before pregnancy. Schedule a dental appointment when planning for pregnancy for early detection and care for minor problems like broken fillings, cavities, or undetected infections.
However, if you experience any pain, infection, or injury, do not delay in seeking dental treatment. Being in good health will also be beneficial for your baby, and with regular dental check-ups, you are assured with proper oral hygiene.
This article is contributed by Smile Makers Dental Clinic. You can read their original article here. Smile Makers Dental Clinic provides a wide range of dental services for the whole family, from braces to bridges, repairing tooth decay to dentures and implants. You can make an appointment with them using GetDoc.
by waiyee
Film junkie. Matcha drinker. Dog lady. Will write for food. View all articles by waiyee.
