Dental health is among the last things that pregnant mothers think about. During your pregnancy, your primary focus is on the little bundle of joy growing inside you. That and the hormonal and physical changes that occur in your body are enough to take all your attention. However, maintaining oral health is critical throughout the pregnancy period. The many changes in the body can increase certain oral risks that could cause long-term consequences for you and your child. Here you will learn some useful tips that you can utilize to maintain oral health during the pregnancy period.

Stick to your dental appointments

When expecting a baby, most mothers focus on their prenatal clinic appointments and forsake the dentist. However, this should not be the case. Continue your routine dental appointments during the pregnancy. This will help your dentist to identify any developing issues before they blow up. Also, the specialist can provide valuable advice on how to maintain healthy teeth and gums during and after pregnancy.

Increase your calcium intake

There's a myth that goes around that during pregnancy, the teeth lose calcium to the rest of the body where it is needed to support the growing baby. However, this is not usually the case. The teeth do not lose calcium, but your body requires more of it for child development. For this reason, you should increase your calcium intake to ensure that there is enough for both you and the baby. Calcium will also strengthen the teeth and protect them from most dental issues that arise as a result of hormonal changes during pregnancy. You can get calcium from foods such as dairy, seafood, and vegetables, and the prenatal supplements given by your obstetrician.

Beware of dental risks

Expectant mothers are often at a high risk of suffering certain dental conditions such as tooth decay and gingivitis. During pregnancy, the body produces high levels of progesterone, and this increases the acid in the mouth. The acid can corrode the enamel and irritate the gums. If you have cravings for sweet junk, the sugar together with the acid will eventually cause dental caries. Look out for signs of gum diseases which include swollen and bleeding gums. If you notice any of these symptoms, see your dentist immediately.

Maintain an oral health routine

Most of the dental problems that arise during pregnancy can be prevented through maintaining a routine. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly. Drink adequate water to flush out bacteria from the mouth. If you get morning sickness, rinse the mouth afterward to get rid of the acid.

Observe these tips and don't forget to visit a family dentist regularly for oral checkups. Doing so will ensure that you avoid dental issues during your pregnancy.