Just found out that you are expecting? Congratulations!
Out of all the things you need to think about, worrying about seeing your dentist probably isn't very high on the list. But your dental health has a big impact on your overall health which in turn has a major influence on the health of your baby, so it’s important that you maintain a good dental health routine throughout your pregnancy, and beyond.
By now you may have heard the old wive's tales about calcium leaching from your teeth to the baby, the loss of a tooth for every baby you have, and fluorides treatments being bad for your baby; we want to assure you that none of these are true and your dentist should be an active part of your healthcare team in the lead-up, during and after your pregnancy.
Make seeing your dentist a priority
With the constant change of your hormone levels during pregnancy, you should maintain regular check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist is trained in which medications you can safely take while pregnant, and which procedures can be done at different stages of pregnancy.
Dealing with food cravings and morning sickness
Strange food cravings are not unusual in pregnancy. If your cravings take a turn towards the sweet end of things, try to limit the sugary snacks and instead, choose healthier options such as fresh fruit with natural or Greek yoghurt.
If you suffer from morning sickness, you need to know that vomit is highly acidic and can cause irreversible damage to your teeth. Tempting though it is to brush your teeth straight after a bout of morning sickness, it's best to wait an hour or so as brushing too soon can strip away the enamel of your teeth. While you're waiting, try rinsing your mouth with water to remove the acids or chew sugar-free gum.
For more information, check out the link below or book an appiontment to see one of our Dentists.
Pregnancy - Your Oral Health | Australian Dental Association
