San Bruno Dentist Talks About Taking Care Of Your Teeth And Gums During Pregnancy
Taking Care Of Your Teeth And Gums During Pregnancy
Your oral health is an important part of your overall health, and this is never truer than during pregnancy. Good oral health habits not only help prevent oral problems during pregnancy, they also help the health of your unborn child. What you eat during your pregnancy affects the development of your unborn child -- including teeth.
Eating a balanced diet is necessary to provide the correct amounts of nutrients to nourish both you and your child. Your baby's teeth begin to develop between the third and sixth month of pregnancy, so it is important that you receive sufficient nutrients – especially calcium, protein, phosphorous, and vitamins A, C, and D. There is a common myth that calcium is lost from the mother's teeth during pregnancy.
In fact, the calcium your baby needs is provided by your diet, not by your teeth. If your diet does not provide enough calcium, your body will provide this mineral from stores in your bones. If you have an adequate intake of dairy products – the main source of calcium – or take any supplements your obstetrician recommends – this will help you get the calcium you need.
To help prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease, brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque. Be sure to clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdentally cleaners. Make regular visits to your dentist during your pregnancy to ensure the best possible health for you and your baby.
Is It Safe To Have An X-Ray While Pregnant?
Some women worry about whether it's safe to have an X-ray exam while they are pregnant. This can cause them to put off treatment they need. However, untreated dental infections can pose a risk to the fetus, and dental treatment may be necessary to maintain the health of the mother and child.
Sometimes this will mean an X-ray is necessary. Radiation from dental X-rays is extremely low but every precaution is taken to minimize radiation exposure. For example, a leaded apron reduces exposure to the abdomen and should be used when a dental radiograph is taken.
In addition, a leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from radiation, and should be used whenever possible. The use of a leaded thyroid collar is strongly recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children.
Overall there is no reason to avoid dental radiographs (X-rays) while pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to become pregnant. Follow your dentist san bruno advice and ask questions if you have any concerns.
Your oral health is an important part of your overall health, and this is never truer than during pregnancy. Good oral health habits not only help prevent oral problems during pregnancy, they also help the health of your unborn child. What you eat during your pregnancy affects the development of your unborn child -- including teeth.
Eating a balanced diet is necessary to provide the correct amounts of nutrients to nourish both you and your child. Your baby's teeth begin to develop between the third and sixth month of pregnancy, so it is important that you receive sufficient nutrients – especially calcium, protein, phosphorous, and vitamins A, C, and D. There is a common myth that calcium is lost from the mother's teeth during pregnancy.
In fact, the calcium your baby needs is provided by your diet, not by your teeth. If your diet does not provide enough calcium, your body will provide this mineral from stores in your bones. If you have an adequate intake of dairy products – the main source of calcium – or take any supplements your obstetrician recommends – this will help you get the calcium you need.
To help prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease, brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque. Be sure to clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdentally cleaners. Make regular visits to your dentist during your pregnancy to ensure the best possible health for you and your baby.
Is It Safe To Have An X-Ray While Pregnant?
Some women worry about whether it's safe to have an X-ray exam while they are pregnant. This can cause them to put off treatment they need. However, untreated dental infections can pose a risk to the fetus, and dental treatment may be necessary to maintain the health of the mother and child.
Sometimes this will mean an X-ray is necessary. Radiation from dental X-rays is extremely low but every precaution is taken to minimize radiation exposure. For example, a leaded apron reduces exposure to the abdomen and should be used when a dental radiograph is taken.
In addition, a leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from radiation, and should be used whenever possible. The use of a leaded thyroid collar is strongly recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children.
Overall there is no reason to avoid dental radiographs (X-rays) while pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to become pregnant. Follow your dentist san bruno advice and ask questions if you have any concerns.
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