Expecting? Don’t Forget to Visit the Dentist in Valparaiso
If you’re reluctant to visit the dentist during pregnancy because you fear it’s unsafe, know that the opposite is actually true. Not only is it totally safe to go to the dentist during pregnancy, skipping the preventive appointment could be dangerous to you and your baby’s health.
To ensure you, your smile, and your little one stay healthy throughout pregnancy, visit the dentist in Valparaiso at least once — preferably in the first trimester. Here’s what expectant mothers need to know about preventive dental care.
#1: Hormonal changes affect your gum health
During pregnancy, you may experience a form of gum disease that we call pregnancy gingivitis. While it’s typically temporary and mild, the condition should be monitored by your dentist. The gums provide an easy entry into the bloodstream for harmful bacteria. Left untreated, pregnancy gingivitis can worsen and turn into periodontal disease, which has been linked to premature birth and low birthweight.
#2: Morning sickness erodes tooth enamel
If you are dealing with frequent nausea and vomiting as a result of your pregnancy, know that the acids from your stomach gradually weaken your tooth enamel. Protect your teeth by rinsing your mouth with water after vomiting, and visiting your dentist to make sure cavities don’t develop as a result of enamel erosion.
#3: Your diet affects dental health
You know better than anyone that pregnancy affects your diet. Eating more carbohydrates and simple sugars can make you increasingly vulnerable to cavities and gum disease. Ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy by brushing and flossing as you should. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth after each meal, or at least twice a day. Floss daily to remove the food particles and plaque your toothbrush leaves behind.
We Take Special Considerations With During Your Pregnancy
When you schedule an appointment during pregnancy, you’ll receive the same personalized, expert care you’ve come to expect from Smiles of Valparaiso & Associates. But we’ll take a few more things into consideration during this appointment. Like with x-rays. The amount of radiation is low anyway, but we’ll cover you with a special blanket and collar to make sure you’re not exposed to any radiation. And in the event that you need a root canal, filling, extraction, or any other restorative treatment to protect your health, we’ll keep you comfortable with local anesthesia, which is totally safe during pregnancy.
All elective procedures, including dental implants, cosmetic treatments, and anything else that’s not necessary for your oral health, should be put off until after pregnancy.
Schedule an Appointment Today
One thing is for sure — there’s a lot to think about when you’re pregnant. Don’t leave visiting the dentist off the list! Have you scheduled a visit with the Smiles of Valparaiso & Associates? We want to protect you and your baby’s health by ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout pregnancy. Contact us to request a preventive appointment today!