This post is sponsored by the American Dental Association; however, all opinions are my own.
I always make sure that I have regular dental checkups. But during pregnancy, it’s even more important for me to make sure that I keep my regularly scheduled visits.
During my previous pregnancies, morning sickness was a major issue for me. As tempting as it may be to avoid brushing, it’s important that you don’t skip it, no matter what.
One thing that I have learned is that after vomiting, you should immediately rinse your mouth with a diluted mouthwash, water or a mixture of 1 cup of water and 1 tsp. of baking soda.Then brush your teeth about 30 minutes later. This helps to protect the enamel on your teeth. In early pregnancy, I always take extra care to ensure that I keep my routine in place.
By having good oral care practices at home, I ensure that when I go to the dentist, I have great visits at the office as well. Poor habits during pregnancy have been associated with premature delivery, intrauterine growth restriction, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia.
One of the biggest problems I faced during previous pregnancies as well as this one, is the increase in plaque build-up. To help combat this, I continue to brush my teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Use products that have the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance so you know you’re using the best items for your teeth.
Regardless of whether you are pregnant, good oral care is so important. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice daily, cleaning between your teeth every day, and visiting the dentist regularly to make sure everything is in good shape.
Another thing to maintain good oral care during pregnancy is to ensure that you are eating nutritious foods. Avoid eating lots of sweet and sugary items in between brushing. Another great tip I learned was to eat for your baby’s teeth! Their teeth begin to develop before twenty weeks, so it’s important to make sure that you are not only eating foods to protect your teeth but to help their developing ones. When possible, drink fluoridated water as well to keep your teeth – and baby’s – nice and strong.
What’s your oral home care routine? Let me know in the comments below!
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of the American Dental Association.
Love of impromptu dance parties, 80’s cartoons, and horizontal life pauses (aka naps); Natasha Brown is a stay at home mom of 4 kids, and wife to one lucky guy! In her spare time, she is co-editor of Grits & Grace, as well as editor for The Mother Hustler Blog and Creative Director for the Mother Hustler podcast.
