Pregnancy And Baby Care Conditions During Pregnancy Tooth Decay During Pregnancy

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Frequent bouts of vomiting can leave a great deal of stomach acid in the mouth and this too can lead to pregnancy tooth decay.

Prevent Tooth Decay During Pregnancy

To prevent pregnancy tooth decay, make sure that you brush your teeth twice a day, preferably with a tooth paste that has fluoride as an ingredient. Brush along the gum line and remember to floss every day. If you have vomited, wait for half an hour at least before brushing as the stomach acid can combine with the ingredients in your tooth paste and cause the tooth enamel to erode. Rinse your mouth out with plain water instead or use a fluoride based mouth rinse to protect the gum line and teeth. Keep away from smoking, alcohol and caffeinated drinks. Make sure your diet contains fruits like apples, pears, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, cereals, nuts, fish, lean meat and eggs.

Avoid food products with too much sugar in them and especially sweets. Sweets have a tendency to stick to the teeth and are difficult to scrape out. Regular dental checkups are necessary prior to and during the early stage of the pregnancy Tooth decay and pregnancy can be a problem if your dentist suggests an x-ray. X-rays are best left off to after the pregnancy to minimise the radiation that the baby is exposed to. However, if it is deemed absolutely necessary, the lead apron at the dentist’s will protect you and the baby. Drugs and medication is best avoided in this condition, although if there is any inflammation, pain and swelling in the region, consult your dentist immediately. It is important to tell your dentist that you are pregnant well in advance to decide how the problem should be treated without harming the child within.