Pregnancy teeth MM


While pregnancy brings some fantastic changes to your body, it doesn’t – unfortunately – do your teeth any favours! Dentist Liam Quinn tells you how to keep your teeth in tip-top condition.


The tooth, the whole tooth


Liam Quinn Dentist


Good dental care is obviously important at any time, but it’s particularly important during pregnancy – not only for you, but also for your growing child! That’s because a baby’s teeth can start to develop as early as the third month of pregnancy, so you can help get baby off to a good start by taking care of your own teeth. One thing that is vitally important is


that, during pregnancy, when you make your dental appointment, you must let the staff know that you’re pregnant. They may want to take precautions if you need X- rays or pain treatment and you should also let them know about any medications you’re taking. During pregnancy, you may notice some


changes in your teeth and gums. You may, for example, find that your gums become swollen and sore, and may actually bleed. That’s because of a build-up of plaque on your teeth. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your gums more vulnerable to plaque, and this can lead to inflammation and bleeding. It’s generally known as pregnancy gingivitis. Even though your gums may be sore


and may bleed, it’s still important to brush and floss each day. If you find that your gums are sensitive, try a softer brush. If you have morning sickness – and


particularly if you’re vomiting – I would advise rinsing your mouth with plain water after each time you vomit, as this will help prevent the acid in your vomit attacking your teeth. After vomiting, it’s also advisable to


leave brushing your teeth straight away, as they will be softened by the acid from your stomach. Wait for about an hour before cleaning them. In terms of dental treatments that


should be avoided in pregnancy, it’s a good idea to discuss with your dentist whether any new or replacement fillings should be delayed until after your baby is born. The Department of Health advises,


for example, that amalgam fillings shouldn't be removed during pregnancy, but your dentist will be able to guide you on this. If you need to have a dental X-ray during


your pregnancy, then your dentist may advise waiting until you've had your baby, even though most dental X-rays don't affect the tummy or pelvic area. My tips for good oral hygiene during


pregnancy would be: • Clean your teeth carefully twice a day for two minutes with a toothpaste containing fluoride. If you’re uncertain about the proper brushing technique, ask your dentist to show you a good brushing method that will remove all of the plaque. • Floss every day. • When it comes to brushing, it’s best to use a toothbrush with a small head and soft filaments. Find one that’s comfortable to hold. • Eat a balanced diet, opting mainly for foods that are low in sugar and drinking water or milk. It’s particularly important during pregnancy to avoid having sugary drinks (such as fizzy drinks or sweet tea) and sugary foods too often. If you have to have them, try to keep them to meal times. • If you're hungry between meals, snack


on vegetables and avoid sugary or acidic foods. • Rinse at night with an antimicrobial mouthwash to control plaque. Make sure the mouthwash is alcohol-free though! • Stop smoking, as it can make gum disease worse.


Whatever your dental concerns during pregnancy may be, always remember that your dentist will be able to provide you with the information and guidance that you need to ensure optimal dental health for you – and your baby!


With more than 20 years’ experience, Liam Quinn Dental Clinic provides a wide range of dental services, including: •Tooth whitening •Drill-free dentistry •Working with people who have dental anxieties


• Improving smiles •Helping people to make their mouths healthier


•Helping people to reduce or eliminate headaches through splints and equilibration


For more information visit quinndental.co.uk or call the clinic on 028 9447 2311.


Modernmum 37


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52  |  Page 53  |  Page 54  |  Page 55  |  Page 56  |  Page 57  |  Page 58  |  Page 59  |  Page 60  |  Page 61  |  Page 62  |  Page 63  |  Page 64  |  Page 65  |  Page 66  |  Page 67  |  Page 68