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Back Dental Care Before, During & After Pregnancy by gino carpio What you need to do… Before pregnancy If you are planning to have a baby, be sure to schedule a dental check-up and schedule appointments to have all your dental treatment completed. It is much wiser to have dental treatment before pregnancy and render yourself “dentally fit” than to delay necessary treatment for another 9 months or beyond. Even if you have no problems, it is always good to have a dentist check on your brushing habits and give tips on how to improve your oral hygiene. Don’t use excuses like having “no time” or being “too busy”. After all, when your baby arrives, you will be even busier! During Pregnancy If you are unlucky enough to develop pain or swelling in or around your mouth while you are pregnant, do not delay treatment. Get the treatment done because anything that improves your health will be good for your baby as well. Do let your dentist know about your pregnancy and any medications you may be on. If your condition requires it, antibiotics will be prescribed to fight the infection. Complete the course. The antibiotic that you should definitely avoid while pregnant is tetracycline, as it will affect the development of your baby’s teeth. If you should need procedures like root canal treatment that involves X-rays, rest assured that dental x-rays are of very low dosage and specifically targeted to your teeth. If you have a badly decayed tooth, remember that it is like a reservoir of bacteria in your mouth. Get it out. It is safe to have extractions carried out in a normal pregnancy. There is no reason to avoid routine dental care during your pregnancy. Indeed, you should schedule at least one dental visit during your pregnancy. According to Dr. Asha’s, dental surgeon at Smile Makers Dental Clinic, most women find it comfortable to do this during the 4th to 6th months. A thorough dental cleaning done during this time, will help to minimise the possibility of developing pregnancy gingivitis and give you the comfort of knowing that your oral health will not contribute to the possibility of having a premature baby. Apart from gum disease there are other issues that can be addressed e.g. morning sickness. Some women may find their teeth too sensitive to brush when they have frequent bouts of vomiting. At times like this, rinse the mouth with plenty of water, brush with bland, non-foaming toothpaste or even just a wet toothbrush. To help reduce sensitivity caused by the wearing out of tooth enamel by acid from the stomach, a calcium cream (Tooth Mousse®) can be applied on the teeth surfaces. Remember to keep to a healthy, balanced diet. You might develop sweet cravings during pregnancy. However, keep in mind that the more frequently you snack, the greater the chance of developing tooth decay. Your baby’s first teeth begin to develop as early as 6 weeks into your pregnancy. Healthy diets containing dairy products (e.g. milk, cheese, yoghurt) are good sources of essential minerals and are good for your baby’s developing teeth and bones. Supplements may only be needed if you cannot tolerate certain foods or have dietary restrictions. After pregnancy Practise excellent oral hygiene even while recovering. If you have been delaying dental treatment, schedule a visit and get it done. Problems in your mouth rarely go away, they often get worse. Make conscientious dental care part of your life. You will discover that your good habits and good attitudes to oral health will be picked up by your growing child. Author's Biography: http://www.mumcentre.com http://www.mumcentre.co.id/'>http://www.mumcentre.co.id/'>http://www.mumcentre.co.id/'>http://www.mumcentre.co.id/'>http://www.mumcentre.co.id/'>http://www.mumcentre.co.id/'>http://www.mumcentre.co.id/'>http://www.mumcentre.co.id/
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