Dental Care for Moms-To-Be

Over the past few weeks, we've covered the basics of dental care for children 0-30. But what about kids up to -9 months old? You can actually use oral health techniques to the benefit of a child in utero -- by taking care of your own mouth. Studies have shown that poor oral health in mothers has a noticeable negative effect on their babies' health. So what do pregnant women need to do differently than everyone else?

Tell Your Dentist Immediately
Your dentist ought to know the day you know that you're pregnant. (So should your family doctor, of course.) That's because some relatively-common dental routines, such as the use of tetracycline, can negatively affect a baby's growth and should be stopped immediately. Tell your doctor right away so he or she can modify your routine accordingly. Also tell your dentist about any new medicines your doctor has put you on, to avoid any possible counter-indicated drugs or procedures.

When to Avoid the Dentist
There are two very critical periods in the development of any child in which it's wise for the mother to avoid basically any non-critical messing about with her body, including the dentist. The first is the first trimester -- all of it -- and the second is the latter half of the third trimester. The second trimester is safe for most regular dental operations, but any surgery requiring anesthesia or X-rays and any elective procedure should be delayed until after the baby is born unless they threaten your life.

Morning Sickness
Purchase a bland-tasting toothpaste to avoid triggering your morning sickness every time you brush, and a bland mouthwash for rinsing your mouth with should you be unable to avoid vomiting. Always rinse your mouth with something -- even if it's just water -- after you vomit, or the acids from your stomach will sit in your mouth and wreak havoc on your teeth.

Swollen Gums and Other Complications
If you experience swollen gums, pregnancy-related gingivitis, or other oral complications of pregnancy, don't let it keep you from taking care of your mouth. Consider switching to a softer toothbrush, milder toothpaste, and/or waxed floss in order to keep your routine going. Make sure you avoid sugary foods as they only add to the swelling and the sensitivity of your teeth. As soon as you're out of the hospital with your newborn baby, schedule an appointment for you to see your dentist.

For as long as your baby is breastfeeding, your diet directly affects his/her immediate and future oral health -- so stay off the sweets and load up on the fruits and veggies. The little one might not be able to thank you, but you'll thank yourself in a few years when your child's perfect smile begins to show.