We know that new mothers face many challenges. The major lifestyle change of welcoming a new child into the home can make it easy for mom’s to forget about themselves because all their attention and time is on their new infant and what is right for baby. But they need to remember that their health is just as important, not only for themselves, but for their baby too.
When pregnant or nursing, new moms should still keep their dental checkups. It is perfectly fine to still go to the dentist at this time although certain elective or non-necessary treatments may be delayed during pregnancy. If dental work does need to be done during pregnancy, there are guidelines that dentists will closely follow while working with the ob/gyn team to make sure your specific care instructions are followed during dental care.
Some pregnant women or new moms can let their normal dental routines go. However, with all of the close contact with baby and maternal body changes, pregnancy and immediately after the birth of the baby represents a most critical time for mothers to find the time to brush twice a day and floss at least once a day. Not keeping up with these daily routines can lead to gum disease and cavities. Dr. Elizabeth warns us that, “cavities cause bacteria in the mouth and sharing a spoon or licking a pacifier, could transfer that bacteria to baby and put them at risk for cavities and oral infections.”
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is another problem new moms sometimes face. Stress or not sleeping well can cause this to happen overnight. It can even effect the neck and jaw. If new mothers are experiencing mouth, neck, or jaw pain or sore teeth, we recommend discussing these symptoms with your dentist. Finally, new moms should be sure to stay hydrated and drink lots of water. Dry mouth puts mom at risk for gum disease and cavities, which again, can make it more likely that baby is exposed to these harmful bacteria.
It can be easy to forget about yourself during this busy time, but new moms need to be sure that they continue to care for themselves for their own health as well as the health of their baby. If you have any questions, please feel free to talk to us about it.
About Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan, the offices of Drs. Delaney, Plunkett, Ralstrom, Makowski, Thanasas, Ker, and Associates
Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan have specialized in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics since 1968. Our family-friendly office gives patients and families a more comfortable and consistent experience with dentistry from the very beginning. The pediatric dentists treat children from newborn to 18 years of age while our orthodontists provide care for both children and adults, including being an Invisalign preferred provider. The ability to treat all special needs patients reaches beyond our facility, which has treatment rooms available for children who require additional privacy. Valued hospital affiliations allow dental services to be performed at DMC Children’s Hospital and St. John’s Hospital Macomb when needed. Our specialists are also on staff at Henry Ford and Beaumont hospitals.
