During pregnancy, most women experience a time of great preparation. Choosing names, decorating the nursery, and following your baby’s development will consume much of your energy. Undoubtedly, your body will also change significantly during this time. One area that may get overlooked is your oral health.

It’s important to take good care of teeth and gums throughout your pregnancy. The changes in your hormones can make you more susceptible to problems like gum disease. Consider these facts about pregnancy and oral health:

Be proactive
When you are trying to get pregnant, schedule a checkup with your dentist. This appointment will allow your dentist to assess your current oral health status and address any issues before you have a baby on board!

Watch your diet
Your baby gets the necessary nutrients from you, so eating healthy will help your little one grow and develop at the proper rate. Including foods with calcium and vitamin D in your diet will give you a chance to care for your baby’s teeth even before he or she is born.

Visit the dentist
Because you can be more prone to gum irritation or pregnancy gingivitis, maintain your normal exam schedule. Professional cleanings will keep your teeth and gums healthy during your pregnancy.

Plan ahead
Whenever possible, it is best to avoid dental X-rays and restorative work while you are expecting. If you can’t put off the procedure, remind your dentist about your condition and have the dental provider coordinate care with your obstetrician.

We care about your oral health at Healthy Smiles Dental Clinic Ottawa, Ontario

Keeping your smile healthy requires effort on your part. Brushing frequently, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist every six month will all help with that goal. Other important components are eating healthy and getting enough vitamins. By making sure you get the right vitamins in your diet, you can keep your oral health on track.

Vitamin A
Because Vitamin A promotes healing and skin cell growth, it can help with sores in the mouth. Broccoli, kale, spinach, eggs, and cheddar cheese all provide adequate amounts of Vitamin A.

Vitamin B
If you have a Vitamin B deficiency, you may develop tongue swelling, burning sensations in the tongue and mouth, swallowing difficulties, and oral inflammation. Consuming sufficient servings of whole grains, vegetables, meats, and nuts will ensure that you get enough of this vitamin.

Vitamin C
To prevent gingivitis, weakened tooth enamel, bleeding gums, a reduced ability to fight infection, and other problems, make sure you watch your Vitamin C intake. Oranges, red berries, tomatoes, broccoli, spinach, guava, and grapefruit are good sources for Vitamin C.

Vitamin D
Known to improve periodontal health and help prevent tooth loss, Vitamin D is found in eggs, fatty fish, beef liver, and mushrooms. Adequate sunlight also helps you maintain the right levels of Vitamin D.

Vitamin K
This vitamin assists the body in making proteins and helps with blood clotting. Good sources of Vitamin K include food options like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, soybeans, cauliflower, and kale.

Calcium
Having similar benefits as Vitamin D, calcium can be found in yogurt, milk, cheese, peas, and almonds.