Expectant mothers may be used to carefully monitoring the changes to their body, but how many devote extra attention to their dental care?
When a woman becomes pregnant, hormones in her body – such as estrogen and progesterone – increase significantly. This state can lead to gingivitis. Most moms-to-be experience symptoms of gingivitis at some point during the second to eighth months of pregnancy, according to the American Dental Association. Women can help guard against this condition by brushing carefully after every meal, paying special attention to the gumline.
Some pregnant women may find that brushing causes morning sickness. In this case, the Academy of General Dentistry suggests that they use a fluoride mouthwash that is specifically formulated to fight plaque. Increasing the frequency of dental visits for teeth cleaning during the nine months of pregnancy can also help maintain dental health.
Dental experts also recommend that expectant mothers pay close attention to their diet, following a physician’s guidelines in order to ensure they are consuming foods from all of the major food groups.
