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Dental Health Tips for Women / New Mother's

What’s the first thing people notice about you when they first see you? It’s not your fancy clothes, not shiny jewelry, and definitely not your expensive footwear. The first thing anyone will notice is your smile, and a healthy set of teeth gives you the confidence and freedom to flaunt that perfect smile. A healthy white set of teeth will go a long way not just for a smile but for your overall health. Gum disease is a bacterial infection, it may become a factor in causing other health complications:

  • Heart Disease: People with gum disease are at a higher risk for heart disease and almost twice the risk of a fatal heart attack.

  • Stroke: A study from Colgate has found a relationship between oral infection and strokes.

  • Diabetes: Gum diseases may be a risk factor for diabetes, even in healthy individuals.

  • Respiratory Problems: Bacteria that grow in the oral cavity may cause problems like pneumonia.

  • Pregnancy Outcomes: Pregnant women with gum disease are more likely to have a baby born too early or too small.

Regardless of gender, life stage, or age, a person should always see a dentist to maintain healthy teeth. But believe it or not, men and women have different oral health needs. In fact, women’s oral health needs change at different stages throughout their life, including puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. These changes are primarily related to the changing hormone levels. During puberty, hormone levels rise in women drastically and that can lead to swollen and sensitive gums, as well as mouth sores. The use of contraceptives which may develop dry sockets in women. Other information you should know:

  • Menstruation – Few women find that their gums swell and bleed before their periods. The symptoms usually go away once your periods start.
  • Oral Contraceptives – Inflamed gums are a common side effect.
  • Pregnancy – Pregnancy may cause irritation in gums. Other side effects include red, inflamed, and bleeding gums.
  • Menopause – The change in hormones may cause oral pain, discomfort, burning sensations, altered taste, and dry mouth.

It is very important to maintain good oral health during pregnancy. The increase in hormones during pregnancy like estrogen and progesterone highly increases the risk of inflamed gums, which can lead to serious gum diseases. As the baby’s teeth typically develop in the uterus between the second and sixth month of pregnancy, it is essential that pregnant women receive sufficient amount of key nutrients, such as calcium, protein, phosphorus and vitamins A, C and D. It is important what a woman eats healthy during pregnancy as it affects the development of the unborn child. To minimize oral damage, choose well- balanced meals. Proper dental care is required and is equally important to maternal attention. Untreated dental infections can cause risk to both mother and the baby.

Here are a few tips for women to maintain good oral hygiene:

  • Pay attention to your gums during and following menstrual periods. If your gums become swollen, consult a dentist.
  • Make regular visits to your dentist, and consult about any medicines you might be taking.
  • If you’re pregnant, see your dentist at least once.
  • Use a fluoride toothpaste and drink fluoridated water.
  • Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
  • Take a balanced diet and limit carbonated drinks. Drink water instead of soft drinks.
  • Refrain from smoking. .

Because gum disease is usually painless, many people do not realize they have it until it’s late. The best way to go is by visiting your dentist at least once every 3-6 months. It will never hurt to take advice from a dentist. A dentist will advise you on all the measures you need to take during pregnancy to avoid any irritation in gums and give birth to a healthy baby with healthy teeth. For new moms, it is never too late to start the oral hygiene of their newborns. Feel free to contact us with any issues you may have. We will take great care of your teeth and your overall health.

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