During pregnancy, there is already a lot you need to consider. Be it is the first prenatal appointment to consult the doctor and how to go about it. There is a lot more to take care of during the pregnancy period.
Are you healthy? Is the baby healthy? Are you taking good care of yourself? Eating healthy becomes a priority, and higher chances are that you might overlook your oral health. Remember, you should not ignore your teeth and gum health, as hormonal changes can wreak havoc on your oral health. Have you heard of pregnancy gingivitis? If not, it is time to learn more about it. You may have gingivitis if you notice some pain, blood, or swelling while toothbrushing.
Progesterone hormone levels are high, making you more likely to develop plaque that can attack your gums during pregnancy. Some of the symptoms of gingivitis are:
- Swollen gums
- Tender gums
- Bleeding gums
- Red gums
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
It commonly develops between 2 to 8 months, especially in the third trimester. Most pregnant women lose their teeth or increase the risk of tooth decay. If you have pain, blood, or swollen gums, you might not want to ignore it and consult the dentist immediately. Foothill Dental Care can help your case and prevent any tooth damage depending on its stage.
Some of the preventable measures are
Practice oral hygiene – Commonly, you may not feel like brushing your teeth, but practicing good habits will benefit you. Brush twice a day and floss too. You can use a soft toothbrush that won’t irritate your tender gums and fluoride toothpaste. It is a good idea to put some effort into consistently toothbrushing and flossing, as you may likely reverse the inflammation and damage to your teeth and gums.
Healthy diet – The doctor recommends consuming a balanced, whole-food diet. You must eat various fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products. Avoid sugary or starchy foods, like candy, cookies/cakes, and dried fruits. Over time such foods can likely attack your teeth and gums. Always go for water or milk over sodas. These are good for your overall health.
Gargle with salt – When toothbrushing, if you notice bleeding or swelling, add one teaspoon of sea salt into one cup of warm water. After that, swish it in your mouth a few times and spit it out.
Visit the dentist – Schedule an appointment with Foothill Dental Care at (925) 961-5484 to learn how we can help your case.