This post from the dentist at St. Mary’s Dental in Mechanicsville MD is for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Carrying your precious baby not only consumes your time, but your attention as well. But don’t forget your needs and your vitality during these important months.
It’s important to understand that the multitude of changes your body experiences during pregnancy also influence the mouth. Changes in your hormonal balance are needed for growing a new life, but they can also compromise your oral health during pregnancy. Your gums are especially susceptible. In fact, the American Dental Association has conducted studies that reveal a slightly increased risk of low birth weight and pre-term infants in mothers with periodontal disease.
In order to keep your smile healthy, it is optimal to visit us before you are pregnant. If you are already pregnant but haven’t visited a dentist in a while, we encourage you to have an exam. We can check your teeth and gums and counsel you if any changes to your dental hygiene routine are necessary. If there are issues such as gingivitis, it’s a good idea to have your dentist monitor them throughout your pregnancy.
Any treatment – meaning procedures more invasive than an exam and cleaning – hopefully can wait until after your little one arrives. If you have a dental emergency that needs to be addressed before delivery, the best time is during the second trimester. Modern x-ray methods are extremely safe but should be avoided if possible throughout your pregnancy.
When you arrive for your exam, be sure to tell us that you are pregnant. If your doctor has given you special instructions concerning your condition, let us be aware of those recommendations. Moreover, give us a list of all the medications and vitamins you are taking. Throughout your pregnancy, be sure to see us ASAP if you experience any changes to your teeth or gums.
Remember, your diet significantly affects your baby’s health and development, as well as the condition of your teeth. A diet low in important nutrients can impede your baby’s tooth and bone development. Meals and snacks high in sugar, expecially when consumed frequently throughout the day, do not benefit your baby or your teeth. Make sure you get the recommended amounts of calcium, iron, vitamins A, D and C, protein, and phosphorus.
At St. Mary’s Dental in Mechanicsville MD, we provide general and family dentistry for expectant mothers and their young ones. We also offer cosmetic dentistry. Schedule your next appointment with us today!
Contact St. Mary’s Dental:
301-884-3248
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
28169 Old Village Rd
Mechanicsville, Maryland
20659
