Usually when a woman finds out she is pregnant, she becomes very concerned with her health - exercising and eating right and avoiding alcohol and tobacco - because she is now caring for two lives and not just her own. One aspect of overall health that often gets overlooked during pregnancy, however, is one’s dental health.
A survey conducted by the Columbia Basin Health Association Dental Clinic found that typically only 22-34% of pregnant women visit the dentist during their pregnancy. And if an actual problem should occur, only one half of pregnant women seek dental care. This problem is made worse by the fact that there really are no national clinical guidelines for the management of common oral conditions in pregnant women.
During pregnancy, the oral cavity is actually exposed to more gastric acid than at other times. This makes the teeth more vulnerable to the erosion of dental enamel. For women who suffer morning sickness, this is an especially common problem. It is highly recommended to rinse the mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water instead of brushing immediately after being sick. To avoid further enamel damage, it is also suggested that pregnant women use soft bristle tooth brushes and fluoride mouth wash.
So, if you are pregnant, do not ignore your teeth for nine months. Instead, visit the caring and knowledgeable staff at Dr. Azar-Mehr’s Los Angeles dentist office for regular check-ups and teeth cleanings.
