Tips for Mothers
Attention to oral hygiene is very important for women because tender, bleeding gums aggravated by changes in hormone levels are more likely to harbor bacteria. This can contribute to plaque formation.
Plaque is a thick, sticky film of bacteria and their by products that coats teeth and thrives on the food particles that remain around the teeth after eating. Plaque is a common cause of tooth decay (caries) and gum diseases (the inflammation and infection of gums)
- Brush and floss twice daily
- Choose healthy foods. High-sugar foods (especially sticky sweets, chocolate, cakes and biscuits) promote the growth of plaque-forming bacteria.
- Chew sugarless gum after eating high-sugar food
- Have regular check-ups
Pregnancy
- Should take dental check up and complete dental treatment prior to pregnancy
- Regular dental check up should begin at 4 to 6 months after pregnancy
- Avoid taking tetracycline as the medication. It will affect the teeth of your baby.
Damage from stomach acid
Both nausea and vomiting can cause acid from the stomach to reflux into the mouth, damaging the teeth due to erosion of the enamel.
Use a fluoride mouthrinse to neutralize the acid and protect the teeth. If mouthrinse is not available, thoroughly rinse the mouth with water. Avoid further acid exposure of the teeth by avoiding soft drinks and citrus fruit drinks.
No tooth loss
The old wives' tale that says a woman loses a tooth after each pregnancy is not true.
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