Morning sickness can be a very challenging time for women who are pregnant, and depending on the severity of the nausea, it can disrupt not only eating, but also taking care of your oral health. Odors and tastes that are offensive can include products used to take care of your teeth, but we don't want you to neglect them during this exciting time for you. In general, morning sickness is accompanied by nausea and vomiting, which contains a large amount of acidity from the stomach, so it can make you vulnerable to tooth decay and other serious dental issues. Not only that, the hormonal changes you are going through, affects your body's response to plaque build-up. Periodontal Disease and Premature BirthsBecause of the baby's demands, calcium intake becomes critical to protect your bones and teeth. Moreover, researchers found a link between gum disease and low birth weight in babies, which can put the infant at a higher risk of serious health conditions, such as cerebral palsy. It is estimated that 18 out of every 100 premature births can be attributed to periodontal disease. The good news is that many of these problems can be avoided, to keep your teeth and gums healthy during pregnancy. Here is how you should protect your teeth when going through morning sickness. Prevention DentistryThe best way to avoid unwanted dental problems while pregnant is to get a thorough examination and professional cleaning if you plan to become pregnant. Keeping your regular checkups and practicing good oral health at home, are the best things you can do for you and your baby. Many women experience retching when brushing their teeth, especially when reaching the back molars. To avoid this, you can try using a small brush with a small head, like the ones made for babies, slow down and brush slowly, concentrate on your breathing, don't use toothpaste if it makes you feel sick, or try another milder flavor. Remember, toothpaste serves to refresh your mouth and is not necessary. You can try an oral antiseptic or mouth rinse to freshen your breath, especially if you are throwing up. It is very important to brush your teeth at night, before bedtime, especially if you have cravings and eat late at night....
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