Can Pregnancy Affect your Teeth?
Pregnancy not only affects obvious physical aspects of your health – it even has an impact on oral health. In fact, oral health can deteriorate during pregnancy. Find out what you should watch out for, and how you should approach oral hygiene during pregnancy.
Morning Sickness
The dreaded morning sickness. Pregnancy hormones weaken the stomach muscle that keeps food down. Morning sickness (gastric reflux) is continuous reflux, and regurgitation of food or liquid. Whilst regurgitating, the stomach acids create a coating on teeth that may damage the tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay.
To avoid damage or tooth decay follow these suggestions:
- Brush teeth an hour after vomiting (Don’t brush immediately. Teeth will be covered in stomach acid and any brushing against the teeth will damage the tooth enamel)
- Rinse mouth with water
- Rinse mouth with fluoridated mouthwash
Cravings
During pregnancy your body may crave food or liquid you wouldn’t ordinarily crave. Introducing new food or liquid to your diet can be risky, especially if you’re unaware of the damage it may be doing to your teeth.
Acidic food and drinks include oranges, or any type of fruit juice. Food and drinks with large amounts of acidity can affect your teeth, potentially leading to tooth decay or erosion.
To avoid tooth decay or erosion, check out these tips:
- Drink tap water.
- Rinse your mouth between meals.
- Eat food and drinks that are low in acidity, sugar, salt. High fibre foods are best for pregnant women.
Dental X-Rays during Pregnancy
X-rays transmit an extremely low dose of radiation, and is safe for pregnant women. Best practice is to cover the patient with a leaded apron which reduces radiation exposure to the abdomen.
Remember: If you are pregnant, it’s important to disclose it to your dentist. If you have any concerns regarding dental X-rays, discuss it with your dentist to work out the best course of action that it is right for you, and the safety of your baby.
Increase Vitamin D
Vitamin D is not only great for the body, but it strengthens and protects teeth from damage. During pregnancy vitamin D is lower, and will need to be monitored. Vitamin D helps the body to use calcium – which is important for your teeth!
The best sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, cheese, eggs or other fortified dairies/plant-based products such as milk and margarine.
Focus on these foods, and both your body, teeth, and bub will appreciate it!
Karalee Family Dental is a trusted local Redbank dentist. If you have any questions regarding the best oral health plan for you, contact us today.
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