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Keeping in to account the extensive new research work and path breaking findings in the field of oral care and hygiene, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has announced special guidelines in 2009. The main purpose of these guidelines is to help pregnant women take care of their teeth and gums. It must be understood that if you are a would be mother with a gum disease, not only would the chances of a pre-term delivery increase significantly, there is a set of other risks involved which may cause problems for the baby.
Beware of Pregnancy Gingivitis
The most common oral disease found in pregnant women is Pregnancy Gingivitis. As the body of a woman undergoes different hormonal changes, this disease crops up in almost half of the pregnant women. If kept under control, this problem will not become too complicated and will subside after delivery. If it is not kept under control, the problem may also grow in worse oral diseases like Periodontitis, which causes permanent gum damage. Moreover the chances of pre-term delivery increase by as much as seven times among women suffering from Periodontitis.
Care and Precaution
To make sure that you have a safe and healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby, you must take good care of your teeth, gums and mouth. Refer to the below mentioned guidelines on how you can prevent such problems from occurring.
* Proper awareness about oral health: You must educate yourself about the various aspects of taking care of your mouth and gums. Remain in touch with a dentist and make sure that you attend the regular counseling sessions. They will also provide you information about other aspects of oral care which are necessary, even though not directly related.
* Proper cleaning of your mouth: It is necessary that you keep your teeth and gums clean. This involves proper brushing of teeth as well as ensuring that the teeth are regularly flossed. If you do not have plaque in your mouth, the chances of your baby arriving pre-term or being low weight at birth are significantly curbed.
* Use of Fluoride: Usage of a fluoridated toothpaste has always been the most important yet often ignored tip given by dentists. If you are above the age of six (which is obvious if you are pregnant), you must use a fluoridated toothpaste. In addition to this, you may also get a non alcoholic, fluoridated mouth wash.
While these are the key tips for oral health care in pregnancy, it is also a must that you ensure proper, calcium rich nutrition, treat any cases of tooth decay already present, use a Xylitol Gum and make sure that oral bacteria is not transmitted to or from any other person.
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