I loved being pregnant. The thought of motherhood excited me and drove me to learn everything I could do to protect the life of the child that was growing inside of me. I learned things that helped me and my baby survive and thrive during the nine months of bliss.
As a dental hygienist, I have always educated my “soon to be mother” patients in the importance of daily oral care. I inform them on common oral health issues during pregnancy such as:
- The hormonal changes that can affect the body’s reaction to plaque and bacteria in the mouth. These hormones can take simple bacteria in gingivitis and create severe periodontal disease.
- Red swollen gums with inflamed “tumors” between teeth are not normal.
- Weakened enamel of the teeth caused by the first three months of morning sickness.The vomiting and crackers are pure acid attacks to the teeth.
- Sugar cravings increases acid production that weakens the teeth and leads to cavities. This feeds the myth that “you lose a tooth for every baby”.
Following a daily oral care routine with an electric brush, toothpaste and floss can keep the bacteria away. An
Oral-B electric brush and the Pro-health line of dental products is a winning combination in the prevention of gum disease. The Oral-B electric brushes uses bluetooth technology to record and inform users of their brushing habits. The new GENIUS brush also has position detection technology to help people track how much they can improve brushing in various areas of their mouth. This helps provide a more powerful clean. When you are pregnant you need every tool that is easy and effective in protecting your health.
The new formula of
Crest Pro-Health toothpaste is even more effective in controlling gingivitis, sensitivity and acid erosion. The stabilized stannous fluoride helps to restore gingival health within 4 weeks!This formula has been used in pregnancy oral care research. The research has proven that the Pro-Health line is effective in pregnancy care.
I was invited to attend the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses Conference in New Orleans. The conference’s motto was “ to translate knowledge into action.” Crest presented information that gave health professionals knowledge to take back to their patients. Now mothers will be armed with oral care information that will help them grow healthy, full-term babies.
Recently my friend, Kelly, visited the office. Kelly is pregnant with twins! She used to be a caregiver to my two girls and I know she will be an incredible mother. She knows that it is important for her to have dental care during her pregnancy. Not only did she have her teeth cleaned, she also had some teeth restored that had decay. Kelly wants to have perfect teeth before the big day arrives.
Motherhood is a special time. Knowledge can help pregnant women deliver healthy babies and is most important during this time. Contact your dentist or hygienist to find out more information about how you can improve your oral care before, during and after your pregnancy. Your baby will thank you for it!
Until next time,
Smiles Create Happiness!
By Contemporary General Dentistry
September 27, 2017
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