Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Mother's Dental Health |
Posted: December 13, 2019 |
Having a baby on the way or just delivered, the last thing you have to worry about is your dental health. During pregnancy, there is a lot that takes place; your cravings get out of control, none of your clothes fit, and your body undergoes one of the biggest changes it will ever go through. Nevertheless, if you do not take care of your oral health during and after pregnancy, the chances are there could be serious long-term consequences for you and the baby. Having a proper oral care routine and a few extra steps, you can ensure that dental health is the last thing you worry about during this important phase of your life. Causes of Dental Health Problems during Pregnancy You are less likely to suffer from dental problems during pregnancy if you practice good oral hygiene habits. However, there are common dental health problems that can occur. They include: - Gum Problems Hormones associated with pregnancy can make you prone to gum problems such as gum inflammation, pregnancy granuloma, or worsen any untreated, periodontal disease. Usually, the gum problems that occur during pregnancy are not as a result of increased plaque build-up but a worse response to plaque due to increased hormone levels. - Vomiting Pregnancy hormones tend to soften the muscles that keep food inside the stomach. Vomiting associated with morning sickness or gastric reflux can coat your teeth with the strong stomach acids, which can erode your tooth enamel and increase the risk of decay. - Retching while Teeth Brushing Most pregnant women find that brushing their teeth provokes retching. However, there is a risk for tooth decay if you do not brush your teeth. - Food Cravings Pregnancy can lead to unusual food cravings or food avoidance. And a regular desire to consume sugary or acids snacks may increase your risk for tooth decay. Oral Health for Breastfeeding Mothers A woman’s body does not go through as many physical changes when breastfeeding as it does during pregnancy. Nonetheless, it needs to compensate for the nutrition it makes for the baby. During breastfeeding, your bones break down to produce more calcium into your blood, and the kidneys release less calcium into your urine to save it for the milk production. However, if too much of your jaw bones break down, you could experience dental health problems. Oral health problems during breastfeeding mostly come from less self-care. Taking care of a baby is difficult, and it leaves you with less time to care for yourself. Therefore, mothers may neglect their oral health because they are focused on caring for their new born. Bottom Line No matter how crazy things get during pregnancy or after your baby is born, do not forget to take some time out to take care of your dental health. This does not only applies to your oral health but also your overall health. Your mind and body will be thankful in the long run, and you will be at the best state to care for your baby. At Springvale Dental Clinic, we are committed to working with all of our expectant patients to provide them with the best oral care possible throughout their pregnancy. Schedule an appointment or contact us today so we can answer any of your questions and take care of your dental health.
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