Being a future mother in North Carolina requires a great deal of sacrifice. During this period, a mother-to-be might become so focused on making everything perfect for her child that she neglects her health. However, a mother who cares for herself also cares for her unborn child, which is especially true in terms of dental health.
Visiting your dentist will allow them to evaluate your present oral health and develop a dental plan for the rest of your pregnancy. Caring for your teeth and gums can benefit your baby both before and after delivery. So go ahead and schedule an appointment with a Cary, NC dentist today.
How does pregnancy affect your oral health?
It is common for pregnant women to have more dental problems than usual. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has recommended OB/GYNs to raise awareness and encourage more dental care. Let us look at some variables that lead to poor oral health.
- Hormonal changes
The changes in your body make you more prone to gum disease. Pregnancy gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, and irritated gums. Gums may bleed more easily when brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more severe periodontitis. There is also much scientific evidence linking gingivitis to low birth weights, preterm births, and other associated concerns.
- Tiredness
Pregnant women frequently feel weary. This may lead individuals to forget or miss brushing and flossing. It may also urge people to change their plans and put things off. When you have so much going on, frequent cleaning and checkups may not seem like a priority. However, this increases your risk of plaque, and you are more susceptible to gum disease at this time.
- Grazing
Grazing is unhealthy for our teeth because acid and sugar destroy them over time. Pregnant women are more likely to graze than usual because they are hungry, which throws their typical patterns off. Brushing more regularly is not the solution. After snacking, rinse thoroughly with water and try eating sugar-free gum.
- Morning sickness
Morning sickness, acid reflux, and heartburn are all causes of concern for your dental health. Your stomach acids destroy the tooth enamel, increasing your chances of developing cavities. These concerns should be addressed with your dentist.
- Chewy vitamins
Pregnant women are frequently recommended for vitamins to improve the health of their kids and themselves. Many women like to take them in chewy or gummy form, but they are really terrible for your teeth, and you must be careful to remove all of the sticky pieces.
A mother with poor dental health is more likely to pass on aggressive and destructive germs to her infant, which can lead to problems later on. If you are a pregnant woman, go to the dentist immediately to receive a good dental care plan for the remainder of your pregnancy.
