Pregnant women must be extra careful with their health for both themselves and their babies. Many women experience morning sickness and hormonal changes, which can lead to dental issues if they aren't proactive about their teeth and gum health. Learn more about the do's and don'ts of dental care as recommended by dentists in the list below. 

Do:

Track your calcium intake.

Calcium is an important mineral that a mother should consume on a daily basis. It's mostly found in dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. It can also be found in leafy vegetables and cooked fish. Calcium is important for supporting baby growth while keeping a mother's body and teeth strong and healthy. 

Remember to brush and floss.

Everyday dental care shouldn't be skipped under any circumstances. Due to the aforementioned morning sickness and hormonal changes, there tends to be increased bacteria and plaque growth on pregnant women's teeth. Since bacteria are more likely to develop, women should be extra diligent in making sure they brush twice a day and floss at least once. 

Don't:

Brush after morning sickness.

After a bout of nausea, many people's first impulse is to brush their teeth and purge their mouth of the feeling. However, when a person throws up, their teeth are exposed to acid from the stomach. 

This acid can damage enamel if you brush too soon after vomiting. Instead, you should rinse your mouth with water and mouthwash and wait to brush your teeth until about an hour afterward. 

Schedule dental surgeries and procedures. 

It's important to see a dentist at least once a year, even during a pregnancy. However, pregnant women should avoid scheduling intensive surgeries and procedures until after their child is born and they've recovered. 

Medication used during surgical procedures can impact a baby's development and having operations tends to leave people vulnerable to infections, making them unwise while a woman is pregnant. Wait until after a baby is born before you have your teeth extracted, implants inserted, or other cosmetic and restorative dental work.

If you're looking for dental care throughout your or a loved one's pregnancy, go to Gladstein Dental Center in New Britain, CT. This dentistry has been in operation for 28 years and is run by Dr. Eric Gladstein, a dentist who services patients of all ages for various dental needs. He follows up with all patients, and is thorough and informative about every dental procedure. Call (860) 223-1162 to schedule a dentist appointment, or visit his website for new patient information.