Your oral health deserves care and attention throughout. However, you need to give your teeth some extra attention during pregnancy. Here are a few tips that will help you with the same.
Opt for a healthy diet
What you eat during pregnancy affects the overall health of your child including his/her oral health. The teeth of the fetus start developing between the third and the sixth month of pregnancy. Since, the child's teeth are developing; you must consume a healthy dose of calcium, vitamin A, C, D and phosphorous. These essential vitamins and minerals will ensure sound dental health for your child. Your diet must include foods from the five major food groups:
* Fruits - Try to include fruits of five different colors in your diet.
* Vegetables - Eat all kinds of vegetables, especially the green leafy ones.
* Cereals- This includes bread and other grains.
* Meat , fish and poultry
* Protein- This includes dairy products such as yogurt and milk.
Sufficient calcium intake is a must
It is a known fact that calcium is required for healthy teeth and bones. Thus, it becomes important that you eat calcium rich foods during pregnancy. Dairy foods along with the calcium supplements recommended by your gynecologist are enough to give you the required dose of calcium. Many women are guided by the myth that females tend to lose calcium during pregnancy. As a result, they end up consuming more calcium than required. However, this must be avoided.
Snack wisely
During pregnancy many women feel the urge to snack frequently. However, snacking frequently on carbohydrate rich foods could result in the formation of plaque. This plaque can eventually result in tooth decay. Thus, it is recommended that you snack wisely. Go in for healthier snacks like salads, sprouts, yogurt, fruits, vegetable and the like.
Be careful with dental radiography
Sometimes, a dental condition may arise that may call for immediate treatment. In such a case, dental radiography may be required. Though the radiation from dental X rays is low, precaution must be taken to avoid any harmful effects. A leaded apron could be used to avoid exposure to the abdomen. Similarly, a leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from any kind of exposure.
Watch out for dental problems
Gingivitis, a condition that is characterized by red and puffy gums is common during pregnancy. This condition is primarily caused as a result of increased progesterone levels in the body. It is suggested that you clean your teeth more frequently and floss them on a daily basis.
Pregnancy tumors is another dental problem that pregnant women may have to deal with. This condition refers to the overgrowth of gum tissue. The excessive growth is primarily related to plaque. These have to usually be removed via a surgical procedure post delivery. Visit your dentist if you notice one.
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