Oral Health Care During Pregnancy
Did you know that a baby’s teeth begin to develop while still in the womb? It’s true. At some point between the third and sixth months of pregnancy, a baby’s teeth start to develop. They won’t protrude through the gums until later, but they are still developing while mom is carrying the child.
For this reason, dentists often stress the importance of making smart decisions while pregnant that will set your child up for a lifetime of healthy teeth.
Most importantly, pregnant women need to ensure that they get enough nutrients in their diet. Vitamins A, C and D, along with protein, iron, calcium, and phosphorus are especially important, both for mom’s health and baby’s.
Here are some tips to help you make healthy eating choices
- Eat a variety of healthy foods, such as fruits; vegetables; whole-grain products such as cereals, breads or crackers; and dairy products like milk, cheese, cottage cheese or unsweetened yogurt.
- For snacks, choose foods low in sugar such as fruit, vegetables, cheese and unsweetened yogurt.
- If you have trouble with nausea, try eating small amounts of healthy foods throughout the day.
- Drink water or milk instead of juice, fruit flavored drinks or soft drinks.
- Drink water throughout the day, especially between meals and snacks.
- To reduce the risk of birth defects, get 600 micrograms of folic acid each day throughout your pregnancy. Take a dietary supplement of folic acid and eat foods high in folate and foods fortified with folic acids, including:
- Asparagus, broccoli and leafy green vegetables such as lettuce and spinach
- Legumes (beans, peas, lentils)
- Papaya, tomato juice, orange juice, strawberries, cantaloupe and bananas
- Grain products fortified with folic acid (breads, cereal, cornmeal, flour, pasta and white rice.)
Contact Us!
Have a question for Dr. Fred Costello or Dr. Dan Drake about your oral health care during pregnancy? Contact our office – we’re happy to help! (386)673-1611