Oral Health and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Why is proper oral care so important during pregnancy? Research by a Dentist in Mesa shows, expecting mothers with gum disease are at a higher risk of preterm birth. This is a potentially serious pregnancy complication which leads to serious health concerns in infants. Here are the Oral Health Guidelines for Expecting Mothers:

Oral Health Education – Counsel with  health care providers including physicians, nurses, and dentists about the importance of proper oral health during a pregnancy. Early detection and prevention are so important.

Proper Oral Hygiene – The main goal of oral hygiene is to remove bacterial plaque. In expecting mother’s it has been shown to be a cause of preterm birth and low birth weights. Proper brushing and flossing can significantly reduce plaque before it can produce dangerous bacteria.

Fluoride – The American Dental Association recommends that during pregnancy mothers  use an over-the-counter alcohol-free fluoride rinse as well as a fluoride rich toothpaste to help reduce plaque buildup in the mouth.

Proper Nutrition – Expectant mothers must have a proper diet to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a strong baby. By limiting sugar intake while pregnant mothers can actually prevent plaque build up before it can even start.

Remove Existing Tooth Decay – Mothers to be should have oral exams and have any decay and bacteria removed as this will lower the risk of further damage and poses not threat to the health of the baby.

Bacteria Transmission – Expectant mothers should be very careful about sharing foods and utensils with others in order to prevent any bacterial transmission which are know to cause decay.

Xylitol Gum – Expectant mothers should start to chewing xylitol gum for at least 5 minutes a day. Current research suggests that chewing xylitol decreases the rate of dental decay in children.

Your oral health is always important but it is especially important during pregnancy. Learn more about important oral health conditions at bestmesadentist.com.

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