The following are guidelines suggested by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), in response to the increased concern about oral health during pregnancy:
1) Oral Health Education – DO have consultations with your dentist before, during and after your pregnancy. Early intervention is key, but ongoing care is just as important!
2) Oral Hygiene – DO brush and floss regularly – and properly. It is especially important to try and always brush after meals and snacks, especially sugary ones. Also, have more frequent dental cleanings than you normally would (2-3 during your pregnancy is about right). This will greatly increase the amount of plaque that is removed from the teeth and gums, thereby lowering your risk.
3) Nutrition – DON’T eat junk. This is good advice in general during your pregnancy, but just know that proper diet and nutrition during pregnancy will limit sugar intake which, in turn, will minimize plaque build up.
4) Treat Tooth Decay – DO try and have all urgent dental work completed prior to becoming pregnant. Although, it is safe to perform certain emergency dental procedures during your pregnancy, it is best to have it done prior to becoming pregnant, and especially prior to it becoming an emergency dental treatment!
5) Transmission of Bacteria – DON’T share food and utensils, so as not to potentially transmit bacteria known to cause tooth decay.
6) Use of Xylitol Gum – DO chew gum. Expectant mothers, and everyone, are encouraged to chew xylitol gum (around 4x/day), since research suggests that it may decrease the rate of tooth decay. Chewing sugarless gum increases saliva and thus increases the production of salivary enzymes that help equalize the Ph in the mouth and thus reduce cavity growth.
