Pregnancy and Oral Health

 This post will try to give some answers on dental health during pregnancy and how to take care of your teeth. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your gums more vulnerable to plaque, leading to inflammation and bleeding. This is also called pregnancy gingivitis or gum disease caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth.
The points below provide a simple guideline how to look after your teeth and gums which should turn into a general practice: 

- Clean your teeth carefully twice a day for 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once a day to remove small bits of food from between your teeth, which will help to prevent the build-up of plaque.
- Brushing is best with a small-headed toothbrush with soft filaments.

- Avoid having sugary drinks and foods too often.
-  If you're hungry between meals, snack on foods such as vegetables, fresh fruit or plain yoghurt, and avoid sugary or acidic foods.
- Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
- Stop smoking, as it can make gum disease worse.
- Make a salt-based home mouthwash and use it once daily.

If you have morning sickness (nausea and vomiting), rinse your mouth with plain water after each time you are sick. This will help prevent the acid in your vomit from damaging your teeth. Do not brush your teeth straight away as they will be softened by the acid from your stomach. Wait about an hour before brushing.

It is important to avoid dental X-ray while pregnant. For any concerns, filling replacement or intervention during pregnancy, do speak first with your dentist.
Apart from healthy diet and regular oral hygiene, it is recommended to take fluoride tablets 1 mg per day which is essential for the baby's teeth development in the future and increases their resistance towards cavity.