Congratulations! If you are reading this page, you must have a baby on the way, or have made plans to become a parent. We understand that this is an important and special time for you and your family, and have offered these tips to help ensure your dental health and that of your unborn baby.

Tips for the future mom

I am sure you understand how important this time of your life is, and also an especially important time for your personal health care. During pregnancy, you are assimilating and providing necessary nutrients for the growth and good health of your child.

Some women experience dental problems during their pregnancy. These can be brought on by a variety of reasons.

• Expectant mothers have an increasing tendency to snack . Unfortunately, many times the snacks consist of junk foods, which can be very harmful to your teeth. Reducing snacking (especially sweets) and staying on a well balanced diet will benefit your dental health, your overall health, and the health of your developing baby.
• Hormonal changes can occur during pregnancy that make your gums susceptible to swelling or bleeding. If this becomes a problem, your dentist can help.
• Another problem is that expectant mothers often don't have the time or energy to devote to their personal health care. All the time spent preparing for baby's arrival and the fatigue often associated with pregnancy oftentimes causes an expectant mother to neglect her own health care. Be sure to continue brushing and flossing daily.
• Last but not least, prior to delivery, be sure to visit your dentist for an exam and check up. Once you're baby is born, this is something you probably won't have time to do. Be sure and get any dental problems you may have taken care of prior to baby's arrival!

Protecting your new baby

While you are taking care of your teeth, your expectant baby is already working on a set of their own. Beginning about the sixth week of pregnancy, baby teeth are beginning to form, and the permanent teeth begin to form about the twelfth week, a task that will take eight years to complete.

Certain drugs taken during pregnancy can dramatically and permanently alter your baby's teeth. The most common culprit is Tetracycline, an antibiotic. Tetracycline causes discoloration and defects in the enamel of your baby's teeth if taken during the last three months of pregnancy, and is a defect which will even be seen in the permanent teeth.

Be very cautious about any medications you are taking during your pregnancy. Do not take any drugs left over from a prior illness, any and all drugs taken during your pregnancy should be carefully selected by your physician. Your physician may also suggest taking supplements and vitamins during your pregnancy to promote health in you and your unborn child.

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