MEDICAL INSIDER
DR. RHODA ENTERO
Dental Care During Pregnancy
Part 4
Here are some Dental Health Tips for Expectant Moms. It
will be healthy if expectant mothers will follow these tips:
It is normal for pregnant women to experience food
cravings along with food avoidance. Be extra careful of
the foods you eat.
Speaking of food cravings, remember that intake of
sugary snacks and acidic foods can cause tooth decay
and damage the enamel of your teeth, exposing you to
dental problems.
Instead, consciously choose to eat a diet rich with
calcium, vitamin B-12, and Vitamin C.
Opt for foods with low sugar such as fruits, vegetables,
yogurt, and cheese.
Note also that expecting mothers’ regular calcium intake
is often inadequate during pregnancy. It is advisable to
increase your calcium intake to provide the calcium
needed by your growing baby. You may do so by
consuming more milk, cheese, unsweetened yogurt, and
calcium-fortified soymilk, among other calcium-rich
foods.
Help your body produce more calcium by increasing
Vitamin D intake, which can be acquired through sunlight
exposure as well as intake of cheese, fortified margarine,
fatty fish such as salmon and tuna, and eggs.
Being pregnant, you are definitely allowed to crave. Just
make sure to know the effects of the foods and drinks
you consume – and don’t neglect your dental health.
During the third trimester, it is advisable to avoid
unnecessary dental treatments. Instead, maintain good
dental care through regular brushing and flossing.
You may set an appointment with your dentist after your
baby is born.