Fluoride Toothpaste | Should you avoid it when pregnant?
It’s natural to be cautious about your health when you’re pregnant – you want the best start for your baby. The good news is that fluoride toothpaste is safe for you to use when you’re pregnant however, ensure you never swallow it while brushing. Your dental health is even more important during this time. Your dentist can help you keep your teeth healthy during pregnancy, so make sure you have regular checkups and see your dentist promptly if you have any aches or pains. If you have morning sickness or other issues, your dentist will do their best to make times available when it’s most comfortable to visit.
Pregnancy and your teeth
Taking good care of your teeth during pregnancy is particularly important for your baby. There is a link between mothers-to-be with gum disease and premature births, so don’t neglect your oral health.
“Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your gums more sensitive and more likely to become red, tender and puffy,” says Erina based dentist, Dr Antony Benedetto of National Dental Care, Erina. “Don’t stop brushing, but make sure you’re using a soft-bristle brush and flossing carefully every day to remove food particles stuck between your teeth.
If you have morning sickness you need to be even more careful. Some women find opening their mouths wide to clean their teeth makes them feel sick. Try using a child’s smaller brush and cleaning a little later in the morning. If you vomit, rinse your mouth out with water and leave cleaning for 30 minutes. Smear your teeth with toothpaste instead to freshen your mouth.
Reflux during pregnancy
As your baby grows, you might develop reflux. When your baby is pressing up against your stomach, particularly when resting, acids from your digesting food can push back up your throat. This can not only burn and keep you awake, it is also damages your teeth.
Dr Benedetto suggests that If this is happening, sleep with extra pillows and eat smaller meals more often. “If you wake with reflux, rinse your mouth out thoroughly with water and don’t clean your teeth for half an hour,” he says. “Some toothpaste on your teeth will help, but brushing straight after can damage the enamel.”
Dental work and your baby
Don’t panic if you need dental work during your pregnancy. Having healthy teeth keeps you well and your growing baby is depending on your health. Your dentist will help you be comfortable while you get your dental work done. This not only protects you and your baby now, but it’s one less thing to distract you once baby arrives.
For more information on fluoride toothpaste and dental services during pregnancy, Book Online today!