You’re expecting—congratulations! Now that you are pregnant, you have a few more responsibilities than you did when you were caring for just one. In addition to getting ready for baby to arrive, you must take care of your health in such a way that you are providing your child an optimal environment in which to grow and thrive.
Your oral health and your overall wellness
Many people already know that your oral health and the health of the rest of your body are intimately connected. Disease and infection that spread in the mouth can affect your lungs, your circulatory system, and even your heart. It is even more important to take care of your teeth when you are pregnant, as you become even more susceptible to developing gum disease and infection that can adversely affect the health of your baby.
Below are some tips, courtesy of Austin Preventative Dentistry, that can help you to get on track and stay on track with a healthy mouth before, during, and after pregnancy. Follow these tips and you’ll have a dazzling smile to show that little one when you meet for the first time:
- Brush those teeth: One of the primary ways to keep your teeth and gums free from excess debris and bacteria is by brushing them regularly. Use a soft-bristled brush and make sure to sweep along the gum line as well, giving attention to your tongue and other soft tissues of the mouth. Rinse thoroughly to remove loose food particles, and you will have taken an important step to keeping your teeth and gums healthy throughout your pregnancy.
- Floss regularly: A toothbrush, no matter how good, cannot completely eliminate food particles between teeth. There are bound to be places where your toothbrush does not efficiently clean away stuck on debris, tartar, and bacteria that love to take up residence in dark, moist places. Flossing at least once daily will address some of those hard-to-reach places, eliminating debris and tartar that can take up residence in places where that brush cannot go.
- Practice healthy snacking: The talented professionals at Austin Cosmetic Dentistry ask you to practice healthy snacking during pregnancy. We know that cravings may be out of control for sweet, sticky, and salty foods, but optimal health involves eating a diet full of fresh produce, quality proteins, and whole grains. Make sure to brush your teeth immediately afterward if you do indulge in the occasional sweet or sticky treat, even if it is late into the evening. A healthy body and a healthy mouth are essential in pregnancy and beyond.
- See your dentist regularly: Pregnancy hormones make you more susceptible to inflammation and gum disease, and it is these inflammatory conditions that can cause issues throughout the rest of your body. Setting up and keeping regular appointments with your dentist will help you proactively manage your health by ensuring that your teeth and gums are healthy. Make sure your dentist knows what month of your pregnancy you are in; he can make more informed care decisions about what will be you and safe for baby.
Keep up these habits with Austin Invisalign Dentistry
Regardless of whether this is your first pregnancy or your last, it is essential that you keep up these good oral health habits to ensure that you and your children learn to proactively manage your health. For more strategies on how to improve your oral health and safeguard overall health and wellness, contact us today. We’ll help you uncover your brightest, healthiest smile yet!
