Pregnancy is a remarkable journey filled with excitement, change, and (let’s be honest), a fair share of challenges. While your body is busy building and nurturing new life, it’s easy to put your own needs on the back burner. At Park Hill Dental, we would like to gently remind you that one of the most important things you can do during this time is to prioritize your health, starting with your smile.
Many expecting mothers are surprised to learn just how much pregnancy can affect their oral health. Hormonal changes, increased blood flow, and changes in routine can all affect your teeth and gums. That’s why staying on top of general dental care isn’t just a nice-to-have during pregnancy. It’s essential.
Why Oral Health Matters More During Pregnancy
Dr. Joshua Mijares, our lead dentist at Park Hill Dental, is not only a skilled clinician but also a devoted husband and father. Watching his wife navigate pregnancy and being part of that journey gave him a deeper understanding of the physical and emotional load it carries. He often shares with patients that, although he may not have experienced it firsthand, he absolutely respects and empathizes with their experience.
We know that growing a baby takes an incredible amount of energy and focus, and dental appointments can sometimes fall to the bottom of a long to-do list. Here are four reasons why those dental visits matter, now more than ever.
1. Gum Health Is Linked to Pregnancy Outcomes
Pregnancy hormones can make your gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation, a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. Left untreated, it can lead to more serious gum disease (periodontitis), which has been associated with premature birth and low birth weight.
At Park Hill Dental, we take a gentle, preventative approach. Regular cleanings and checkups help us identify issues early, before they impact your overall well-being or the health of your growing baby.
2. Morning Sickness Can Affect Tooth Enamel
For many women, nausea and vomiting are a part of early pregnancy. Unfortunately, repeated exposure to stomach acid can erode your enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to cavities.
We can recommend safe, pregnancy-friendly products and techniques to help protect your enamel during this time, including gentle rinses, toothpaste options, and tips for brushing after bouts of morning sickness.
3. Cravings (& Dietary Changes) Can Impact Your Teeth
Pregnancy cravings are real. Sometimes, they include sweets or acidic foods. Combined with more frequent snacking, this can increase the risk of cavities. We’re not here to judge (pickles and ice cream, anyone?), but we are here to help you balance those cravings with easy, manageable oral care tips.
4. X-Rays & Dental Treatments Are Safe (With Precautions)
One common myth is that dental X-rays or treatment aren’t safe during pregnancy. In truth, our dental X-Rays are extremely low in radiation and are considered safe when used with proper shielding.
At Park Hill Dental, we consistently follow the latest guidelines and tailor your care to your stage of pregnancy. If you need a filling, cleaning, or other work done, we’ll walk you through everything and ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way.
Here for You, Every Moment of Your 9-Month Journey
At Park Hill Dental in Shavano Park, we see our patients as part of our extended family. We understand that pregnancy is a busy, emotional, and deeply personal time, and we approach your care with that in mind. Dr. Mijares and our team take the time to listen, answer your questions, and provide the kind of support you deserve.
If you’re expecting or planning to become a parent, we’d love to be part of your care team. Schedule a visit with us today and let us help you protect your smile, for you and for the little one on the way. Your health matters. Your smile matters, and at Park Hill Dental, you always matter.
