When you’re pregnant, you’re going to need to master the art of ‘two’ing it’: everything you do, is for two! For some women, this is a blessing in disguise as they get to have their cake and eat it too (literally) twice! The ‘two’ing it’ gives some expecting mum’s the feeling that they can eat their favorite foods (cakes!) without the guilty feeling.
Nevertheless, you have to think of not just the ability to eat for two, but the responsibility of being accountable for two, this includes taking good care of your oral health. Oral health is most often affected in pregnancy, taking care of your oral health will require a few extra steps, but luckily just a few tweaks to your routine should be enough to tackle most issues.
Why You Need to be Extra Mindful
During pregnancy, your body undergoes a lot of stress. There are several reasons why you need to be extra mindful during this period:
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes, for example, can lead to pregnancy gingivitis. This is when your gums bleed due to inflammation.
When it is untreated, it may lead to periodontitis. This is a far more serious type of gum disease, which in some cases, can lead to bone damage. Furthermore, research suggests that there may be a link between gingivitis, low birth weight and an increase in premature birth.
Junk Food
You will usually eat more junk food during pregnancy, this is not out of the ordinary, but it does mean that you will be in greater contact with damaging acids. These ‘acids’ are known to weaken the tooth enamel, which is something that is often experienced during pregnancy.
Your Oral Health = Your Baby’s Health
Your own oral health is tightly connected to the health of your unborn baby. This specifically relates to the level of bacteria in your mouth.
During pregnancy it is not uncommon to have excessive (oral) bacteria, this bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to the uterus. The result can be the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that can contribute to premature labor.
Experiencing Morning Sickness?
Morning sickness is not a nice thing, at all, and often it is difficult to think of ‘extra steps’ beyond just getting through it. Unfortunately, the acid produced by morning sickness can damage your teeth’s enamel.
To effectively wash away this acid, rinse your mouth immediately after being sick. It’s a simple formula: mix 1 tsp of baking soda with a glass of water and rinse thoroughly. That’s all it takes!
Make an Appointment with Your Dentist
We recommend making regular appointments with your dentist during the pregnancy. Trust us, once your bundle of joy arrives, you will (literally!) have your hands full. It’s best to deal with any issues during your pregnancy, in any case.
Gum disease and cavities are not just an issue during pregnancy, but also after birth. This is because there is an increased likelihood of passing bad bacteria to your child, increasing their chances of oral health complications.
Also, if you visit your dentist early in your pregnancy, tell them you are pregnant. It may seem either obvious or completely irrelevant, but it is important for any healthcare professional to be aware that you are pregnant. This is particularly important if you require an x-ray, as your dentist will then usually wait until after delivery.
Brush and Floss Daily
You’ve heard it from your dentist countless times: brush twice daily, floss once a day. But unfortunately, most people don’t do this. According to one survey only 25% of adults in Australia floss once per day.
When you’re pregnant, please follow your dentist’s advice. Brushing and flossing adequately will prevent a wide range of issues, meaning you’ll avoid the dentist’s chair and you will keep your baby’s oral health in top condition also.
You may also want to get a professional dental clean during your pregnancy. This will remove damaging bacteria and ensure your teeth and gums are in good condition.
Good Nutrition
It’s normal that you will have urges to eat all types of junk food. Most mummies-to-be will be going through the exact same thing! The occasional binging over a full tub of ice cream may happen, but try and include healthy nutrition as well.
Healthy foods include the usual suspects. You are looking for plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole-grains instead of white bread and pasta and lean meats where possible. Drink water instead of fizzy drinks, if you can.
We recommend balanced meals that contain plenty of calcium. Limit excess acidity and also attempt to limit sugar. Again, don’t blame yourself if you do have junk food occasionally, but make an effort to balance these meals with nutritious meals for your baby.
You’re a Mummy! Now What?
Once your baby is born, you need to make sure you start taking care of their oral health right from the start. Even if you can’t see those tiny teeth quite yet, they’re there! Here’s how to tackle oral health from day 1:
Wipe Gums
Using a clean cloth that is nice and soft, wipe your baby’s gums twice per day. Do this once after the first feed, and then again before bed. Doing this wipes away the sugar and bacteria that can damage your child’s teeth.
Brush Twice Daily
Once the first tooth makes an appearance, incorporate the brushing routine twice per day. All you need is a tiny smear of toothpaste, as big as a grain of rice. Brush gently and with an appropriate toothbrush. Do not apply too much pressure!
First Dental Visit
By your baby’s first birthday, take them to the dentist. If you don’t have one, ask your pediatrician for guidance. It is always best to stop any issues early on, so you can deal with them effectively.
Your Choices Today Matters!
It’s difficult to really comprehend, but your oral health can pass damaging bacteria to your unborn baby. Not only that, but the consequences may only be seen years down the road. Imagine having to take your child for a cavity filling when they’re just two years old. It happens.
That’s why it is important for you to remember that you are now ‘two’ing it’.
Try to avoid sticky foods full of sugar, visit your dentist regularly, brush twice daily and make your oral health a priority.