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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1. The Key to Balanced Thinking
2. How Turkey Became a Thanksgiving Staple
Make Your House a Fitness Hub
3. Fennel Gratin
Seasonal Stress Survival Tips
4. Dental Care Myths to Avoid During Pregnancy
FACT VS. FICTION Dental Health Care for Expectant Moms
Amid thousands of books written about pregnancy, guides to expectant moms’ dental health are scarce. Plenty of myths have cropped up in that vacuum, creating uncertainty among pregnant women about whether they can seek treatment for cavities and gum disease. Bleeding gums and tooth decay can be a massive problem during pregnancy, and contrary to popular belief, seeking dental care, including local anesthetics and X-rays, can be safe as long as you first clear the treatments with your prenatal care provider. Increases in progesterone and estrogen cause as many as 3 in 4 pregnant women to develop gingivitis, marked by redness, swelling, tenderness, and bleeding of the gums. Gingivitis is caused by plaque, a sticky film on the teeth containing bacteria.
If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease, an infection linked in pregnancy research to premature birth and low birth weight. Increases in plaque during pregnancy can also cause “pregnancy tumors” on the gums around and between the teeth. Expectant moms should seek treatment for pain, swelling, or other signs of infection. Also, some pregnant women find that brushing and flossing make them feel nauseous. Try brushing at times of day when you tend to feel less nauseous or ask your dentist to recommend a mild-flavored mouthwash to use beforehand to mute the taste of the toothpaste.
treatment. Dental X-rays are generally a safe diagnostic tool. They use very small amounts of radiation, and your dentist can cover you with a protective apron. If you need a filling, local anesthesia may be permissible to numb your mouth. Make sure your dentist uses a mercury-free composite filling. Pain relievers and antibiotics may be safe, but check with your prenatal care provider first. And, of course, continue regular cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy, and ask your dentist for advice on preserving your dental health. These steps will help protect you from lasting dental problems long after your baby is born!
Expectant moms are also more likely to develop cavities, so it is important to seek
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