Is it important to see my dentist during pregnancy?

By Dr. Matthew Mangino

 

             It is recommended to see a dentist before, during, and after pregnancy. It is important to maintain a healthy mouth during pregnancy because hormonal changes can increase the risk of developing dental health issues. The dentist and dental hygienist will help in making the best decisions in keeping you and your mouth healthy.

            If you are planning to have a baby, it is important to make a dental appointment to have a professional cleaning and a thorough examination of the mouth. This ensures that any dental issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay, can be treated before becoming pregnant. The dentist should be informed of pregnancy before appointments as a precautionary measure. Dental appointments during the first trimester and the second half of the third trimester should be avoided if possible. The best time for routine dental care is during the second trimester and all elective dental treatment should be postponed until after delivery. Be sure to inform the dentist of any medication, including prenatal vitamins, and any specific medical instructions given by the OBGYN.

Another appointment for a cleaning and exam should be done during pregnancy as well as right after delivery. Do not skip dental appointments because of pregnancy. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase the risk of developing gum disease which causes the gums to become tender, swollen, and to bleed easily. Good oral hygiene habits at home can help to decrease the effects of gum disease. If morning sickness causes problems with brushing then it is important to change to bland-tasting toothpaste. Brushing after having morning sickness is damaging to the teeth, instead, rinse with water or mouthwash and allow 30 minutes before brushing. It is important to also avoid sugary snacks to lessen the risk of developing tooth decay and try to eat a healthy, balanced diet.

There are times that dental treatment is considered an emergency and must be done during pregnancy. If dental work is needed, the amount of dental anesthesia administered should be as little as possible, but still enough to make the mother comfortable. Sometimes antibiotics are required for infections in the mouth and there are several that can be prescribed that are safe to take during pregnancy. If any treatment can be postponed it should be, however sometimes the risk of treatment is less than the risk of leaving infection in the mouth. Tooth whitening and other cosmetic procedures should be postponed until after delivery. Routine dental x-rays are also postponed until after delivery, however, in an emergency situation an x-rays may be needed to perform a dental procedure. If possible this should be done during the second trimester.

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums while pregnant through regular preventative dental check-ups is an important step in avoiding oral infections and making sure the baby is healthy. Never hesitate to talk to the dentist or dental hygienist about any concerns or questions regarding the health of the mouth and how it relates to the development of the baby. Dentist and dental hygienist are there to help make the best decisions for a healthy and safe pregnancy.

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

Nighttime Brushing Is More Important Than You Think

By Dr. William Walden, Paducah Dental Care

 

It’s late and you’re ready to call it a day. You just don’t feel like dragging yourself

into the bathroom to brush and floss those pearly whites before going to sleep.

But while brushing your teeth in the morning is important to protect your teeth and gums, brushing before bedtime is perhaps even more crucial to good oral health.

The reason for this is simple. Our teeth and gums are more vulnerable to harmful bacteria as we sleep. During the day, our mouths produce saliva that neutralizes acids produced by bacteria, thus providing a shield of protection for our teeth and gums. However, as we sleep our bodies produce less saliva, which leaves our teeth more vulnerable to bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease.

Perhaps you never realized it, but brushing at bedtime is also a strong defense against “morning breath.” You may have noticed that you wake up feeling thirsty in the mornings. You’ve probably also detected a hint of bad breath upon first waking up. This happens because your body produces less saliva during sleep.

Brushing at bedtime reduces the amount of bacteria known to cause bad breath and helps to prevent against infections that can create foul mouth odors.

Nighttime brushing also helps to reduce plaque, that nasty yellow film that builds up between teeth and along the gum lines. Plaque bacteria use sugar to produce acids. If left untreated, plaque can lead to painful oral health care problems, including the erosion of tooth enamel.

Breaking bad habits is never easy, but here are some tips for establishing a healthy nighttime oral health routine.

1. Each night as you settle in to watch your favorite television program or to read a good book, remember to set an alarm as a reminder to brush and floss before heading to bed.

2. Brush your teeth before you are too tired or forget to do so.

3. If you watch nighttime television, try brushing during a commercial break.

4. Consider keeping floss next to your armchair as a reminder to brush and floss before hitting the sack.

A couple of extra minutes every night can make a big difference in your oral health. To prevent oral healthcare problems brush your teeth twice daily, include flossing in your routine and make appointments for routine check ups with your dentist. These simple things can save money and a lifetime of poor oral health.

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more!