Pregnancy is a unique time when women may gain access to oral health coverage. Reinforce routine oral health maintenance, such as limiting sugary foods and drinks, brushing twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste, flossing once daily, and dental visits twice a year .
What is the importance of the oral health during pregnancy?
Pregnancy may make women more prone to periodontal (gum) disease and cavities. Oral health may be considered an important part of prenatal care, given that poor oral health during pregnancy can lead to poor health outcomes for the mother and baby .
How can I avoid dental problems during pregnancy?
- Limit sugary foods and drinks.
- Brush twice a day with a toothpaste containing fluoride.
- Floss daily.
Why is it important to maintain good oral hygiene?
Normally the body’s natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, keep bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease .
What steps will be taken to motivate this patient to better oral health?
- Step 1: Swap out your toothbrush. ...
- Step 2: Check in on your brushing technique. ...
- Step 3: Make flossing a habit—really! ...
- Step 4: Reconsider your toothpaste. ...
- Step 5: Schedule your next dentist appointment.
What dental procedures can be done while pregnant?
Most dental services and procedures, including dental x-rays, tooth extractions, dental fillings, and dental cleanings , can be done during pregnancy safely, with tooth extractions recommended during your second or third trimester. Fillings should be discussed with your dentist beforehand.
How does pregnancy affect oral tissues?
High levels of the hormones progesterone and estrogen during pregnancy can temporarily loosen the tissues and bones that keep your teeth in place . This can make your teeth loose. Periodontal disease (also called periodontitis or gum disease). If gingivitis is untreated, it can lead to periodontal disease.
How does dental hygiene affect pregnancy?
Due to bad oral health in pregnancy, pregnant women can experience premature delivery, low birth weight baby, pre-eclampsia, gingival tissue ulcerations, pregnancy granuloma, gingivitis, pregnancy tumors (epulis gravidarum), loose teeth, mouth dryness, and dental erosions.
Is mouthwash safe during pregnancy?
Mouthwash is safe to use during pregnancy and can be an effective way to keep up with your oral hygiene – especially if you’re struggling with gingivitis thanks to your changing pregnancy hormones.
Can I get a dental cleaning while pregnant?
Oral health care – including teeth cleaning, X-rays, pain medication, and local anesthesia – is safe throughout pregnancy . In fact, it’s especially important to have regular dental checkups, cleanings, and any necessary treatments during pregnancy.
What can I use for toothache during pregnancy?
Figuring what foods and drinks exacerbate sensitivity or pain is a helpful first step to reducing toothaches during your pregnancy. Swishing warm, salty water (1 teaspoon of salt added to a cup of warm water) around in your mouth can help reduce inflammation, which might offer some relief.
How do you maintain oral hygiene?
Practice good oral hygiene. Brush teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss daily between the teeth to remove dental plaque . Visit your dentist at least once a year, even if you have no natural teeth or have dentures. Do not use any tobacco products.
What are the various ways by which we can maintain dental health?
- Brush regularly but not aggressively. ...
- Use fluoride. ...
- Floss once a day. ...
- See a dentist regularly. ...
- Do not smoke. ...
- Consider a mouthwash. ...
- Limit sugary foods and starches. ...
- Drink water instead of sugary drinks.
How do you care for an oral patient?
What suggestions can the assistant provide the patient to improve her oral hygiene?
Not Brushing Long Enough
Dental assistants can offer oral hygiene tips that help patients brush longer, such as using a toothbrush with a built-in timer and finding ways to make the brushing experience more pleasurable . Some of today’s toothbrushes for children even play a fun tune that lasts for a full two minutes.
How would you encourage patients to care for their own dental?
- Brush your teeth three times a day. ...
- Choose your toothbrush wisely, and replace it often. ...
- Floss regularly. ...
- Give your tongue some attention. ...
- Stop smoking. ...
- Limit your coffee intake. ...
- Eat a nutritious diet. ...
- Decrease sugar intake.
How do I get back on track with oral hygiene?
If you want to get your oral health back on track you must establish and maintain a high-quality oral care routine . Brushing twice per day and flossing at least once are the bare minimum that you need to do to start properly caring for your oral health.
What dental treatment is free during pregnancy?
You’re entitled to free NHS dental treatment if you’re pregnant when you start your treatment and for 12 months after your baby is born. To get free NHS dental treatment, you must have: a MATB1 certificate issued by your midwife or GP. a valid prescription maternity exemption certificate (MatEx)
