Myths and realities of oral health during pregnancy

During this special time, it is essential to maintain proper oral hygiene and address the myths and realities surrounding dental health during pregnancy. Discover how to care for your teeth and gums safely and effectively, ensuring optimal oral health for you and the dental well-being of your little one.

Is it true that the baby sucks, or absorbs calcium from the mother's teeth?

FALSE. The baby gets calcium from the mother's food; it does not absorb calcium from the baby's teeth or from the mother's bones.

For every pregnancy a tooth is lost, is this true?

FALSE: If the mother already has gum problems such as gingivitis or periodontitis before pregnancy and has not been treated, when she becomes pregnant, due to the hormonal changes that occur, gum disease worsens more rapidly causing bleeding gums, bone loss and consequently the loss of teeth. A woman who has an adequate oral health during pregnancy with proper oral hygiene, no tartar and regular dental visits will not present loss of teeth during pregnancy.

Does being pregnant cause cavities?

FALSE. Being pregnant does not in itself cause you to produce cavities, but there are several factors that can make you more prone to developing tooth decay. There are two important factors to take into account such as vomiting and cravings.

Pregnant women, especially in the first trimester, may vomit a lot. Vomit has a very acidic pH, unlike the normal pH of saliva, which is neutral. This acid in the vomit causes the dental enamel to wear, especially if immediately after vomiting the teeth are brushed, since the combination of this acid together with the dental brushing makes the enamel wear even more.

Therefore, it is recommended that after vomiting, rinse with water or mouthwash and wait 30 minutes, then brush your teeth regularly and use dental floss, this time will allow the saliva to return to its normal neutral pH and thus not cause wear on the enamel and thus decreases the risk of tooth decay.

It is no secret to anyone the cravings that a pregnant woman goes through. The food intake is higher as well as eating out of the usual schedules, eating sweet foods, high in carbohydrates and even acids. This mixed with a deficiency in oral hygiene increases the risk of developing tooth decay, so it is always recommended to maintain proper hygiene and daily flossing to reduce the risk.

Is going to the dentist during pregnancy bad for the baby?

FALSE. It is completely safe to go to the dentist during pregnancy and it is always recommended for dental checkups and cleanings. It is important that you inform the dentist if you suspect you are pregnant, or in which gestational week you are, so that he/she can guide you on what type of dental treatments you can perform during this process and which would be better to perform once the pregnancy is over according to the level of priority.

Can I attend Sonrisa Para Todos in order to have proper oral health during pregnancy?

TRUE If you want to solve your dental problems and rediscover the pleasure of smiling, request an appointment for an evaluation and treatment plan by calling 4010-3333, WhatsApp 7031-7979. Or you can also contact us through our website www.sonrisaparatodos.com. We will be happy to assist you.