Making The Holidays Count For Your Dental Health
There is an urgent call for expectant mothers to pay more attention to their oral health and dental hygiene habits. That’s because the ADA (Australian Dental Association) has released a new survey revealing an alarming percentage of pregnant women jeopardising their oral health. 53 per cent of pregnant women across the country are not visiting their dentist during pregnancy.
At United Smiles, we are not just about restoring and enhancing your smiles. We are also passionate about improving your wellbeing, including that of the baby developing inside you. We can start it by improving your oral health at home and in our clinic. Below are useful tips for taking care of your teeth and gums while you are pregnant.
Tips for Good Oral Health During Pregnancy
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Improve Dental Care
- Pregnant women are susceptible to gum disease due to variations in hormone levels. Gingivitis associated with pregnancy makes your gums sore, bleed or puffy. Untreated gum diseases can lead to tooth loss.
- Dental x-rays, pain medications and local anaesthesia are safe during pregnancy and are only required when your dentist recommends them.
- Get a dental treatment as recommended by your dentist before giving birth.
- If you experience any dental issues, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
- If you are pregnant, tell your dental team about it including your due date. This information helps your dentist provide the best care for you during your pregnancy period.
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Practice Good Oral Hygiene
- Brush your teeth twice a day and replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or once the bristles become frayed. Avoid sharing your toothbrush. Also, clean between your teeth using dental floss or an interdental brush.
- Rinse your mouth every night with fluoridated, alcohol-free mouthwash.
- You can chew gum that contains xylitol after eating to help reduce bacteria that causes tooth decay.
- If you vomit, rinse you mouth with water containing one teaspoon of baking soda to stop the acid from attacking your teeth.
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Eat Healthy Foods
- Eat healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole-grain products, dairy products such as cheese, and milk. Other healthy choices include eggs, beans, nuts, lean meat and fish.
- Reduce your sugary cravings such as candies, cookies and beverages high in acid and sugar. Pick foods that are low in sugar.
- If you are struggling with nausea, try eating small amounts of healthy snacks throughout the day.
- Drink plenty of water especially between meals and snacks.
- To reduce the risks of birth defects take a dietary supplement of folic acid and consume foods rich in folate and fortified with folic acid, such as green leafy vegetables, legumes, oranges, and grain products.
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Practice Other Healthy Behaviours
- Attend your prenatal classes regularly.
- Avoid smoking. If you smoke, stop!
- If you use recreational drugs, stop!
- If possible, avoid second-hand smoke.
- Stop drinking alcoholic beverages.
Maintain Good Oral Health at United Smiles
One of the services we offer here at United Smiles is preventative care, where the treatments are designed to keep your teeth and gums in tiptop shape. If you are expecting a child, we encourage you to visit your Mernda dentist at United Smiles to prevent unwanted dental issues that may develop during pregnancy. By getting comprehensive oral health care, you can reduce the risk of premature birth.
United Smiles is conveniently located in the heart of Mernda Village, serving patients from Doreen, Beveridge, Whittlesea, Mernda and from all Melbourne metro areas. Our dental office includes ample parking available at the rear of the building. Wheel chair access is also available from the front of the building and in fact, all of our surgeries.
For HCF and CBHS, claim your PAY NO GAP OFFER on dental check-up and clean. Book your appointment online or call us on (03) 8682 8658 to claim your FREE Dental Implant Consultation.
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