Due to hormonal changes, some women’s dental health may require closer attention , for example you may notice that your gums appear to bleed more easily, therefore your dentist can explain more about this problem.

There should be no problems with receiving routine dental care during this time, however please advise your dentist that you are pregnant and if you are taking any medication.

There is no damage to teeth during pregnancy as there is no truth in the rumours of calcium deficiency.

A regular balanced diet during pregnancy, can improve your general and dental health. Morning sickness may make you want to eat "little and often" so try to avoid sugary items.

What About Baby ?

The baby’s own check - ups can start at about 6 months, but it is advisable to discuss this with your dentist first. But your baby should accompany you on your own routine check-up, as this can help the baby to become familiar with the practice.

The baby will start teething at about 6 months and will continue until 20 ‘milk teeth’ are present at about aged 2 ½ years. ‘Second teeth’ usually develop between 6-14 years.

Most children do suffer teething pains, but gels and certain teething rings cooled in the fridge may help. Teething pains can vary so it is best to check with your dentist.

Thumb or dummy sucking can affect the position of the baby’s teeth if this happens continuously over a number of years, therefore the baby may require orthodontic treatment when older.

The baby’s diet is important, ensure that any foods or drinks which contains sugars are kept to feeds only. DON’T dip the baby’s dummy into fruit syrups or juices, or give anything containing sugar before bedtime. These can expose baby’s teeth for long periods when harmful bacteria can attack the newly formed teeth and cause decay.

Babies are obviously not able to clean their own teeth, and will be unable to effectively clean them until about the age of 6 years.Until this time they will need help. Cleaning teeth should commence when baby’s teeth come into the mouth.

When cleaning your baby’s teeth position yourself behind and rest their head with one hand - use a small, soft nylon bristle toothbrush with a small amount of toothpaste, and gently massage around the teeth and gums. As the child grows older it may be more difficult to use this technique, but gradually, more responsibility for cleaning teeth is given to the child. It is important to clean thoroughly at least twice a day.

In the event of any damage to your baby’s teeth contact your dentist immediately.

To ensure healthy teeth -

Avoid constant snacking, try to keep items containing sugars to mealtimes only.

Ensure teeth and gums are thoroughly cleaned twice a day . Remember, each tooth has 5 surfaces which need cleaning.

Use a fluoride toothpaste, as fluoride helps strengthen and protect the teeth against decay.

Visit your dentist regularly.

Check out our page on cleaning baby teeth , looking after baby teeth & Sugar Free Medicines

Ask your dentist or one of the dental team for more information.

Call us for an appointment on 0115 9283253

or email us on info@wollatondentalcare.co.uk