Pregnancy and the Early Years
Pregnancy is a critical time for taking extra care of your teeth and having regular dental check-ups.
Pregnancy may cause changes in your oral health such as red, swollen or bleeding gums. Many of these issues are preventable and treatable through regular dental visits and a good at-home oral care routine.
Common changes during pregnancy and tips to help
Hormone Increase
Hormone changes cause gum inflammation (gingivitis).
Choose a toothbrush, paste, and rinse that fight gingivitis.
Morning Sickness
Morning sickness can increase enamel erosion
and tooth sensitivity. Be sure to rinse your
mouth often and use a toothpaste with fluoride
daily to strengthen tooth enamel.
Increased Sugar Intake
Sugar can increase the risk of cavities. Eat healthy
snacks like fruits and vegetables and drink plenty
of water.
Stronger Gag Reflex
Find times in the day to brush and floss when you’re
feeling your best.
Did you know...
If you have acid reflux or morning sickness, you
can rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of
baking soda mixed with water to neutralize
stomach acid and keep it from attacking your
teeth?
Healthy teeth for a healthier baby
Cavity causing bacteria can be passed to your
baby during pregnancy and after birth. Gum
disease has been linked to low birth weight.
Baby Teeth Matter, Too
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease affecting children. The good news is that it’s preventable.
TIPS FOR NEW PARENTS
Most children cannot properly brush their teeth, and need an adult to help them until about eight years old.
Before teeth come through the gums, parents can wipe baby’s gums with a washcloth after eating/drinking.
Parents should use a tiny smear (size of a rice grain) of fluoride toothpaste to brush baby teeth twice daily as soon as they erupt with a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush.
Once children are three to six years old, the amount of toothpaste should increase to a pea-size dollop.
Avoid putting a child to bed with anything other than water in their nighttime bottle or sippy cup.
