Prenatal Dental Care, Pregnancy Dental Treatment
Dental Care and Pregnancy Santa Barbara CA

Dental Care and Pregnancy

Preventative Dental Care During Pregnancy in Santa Barbara

You would never forego seeing your doctor for care during pregnancy. You recognize the importance of regular check-ups - they're good for your health and that of your baby.

The same goes for preventative dental care. It's imperative to not just your oral health that you see your dentist during this time, but to your general health as well.

Why Is Preventative Dental Care Important During Pregnancy?

Your body undergoes many changes during pregnancy. Those changes can impact the health of your teeth and gums. Similarly, your oral health plays a role in your overall health.

How Does Pregnancy Impact Gums and Teeth?

When your hormones fluctuate during pregnancy, your gum tissue will be affected. In fact, most pregnant women experience inflammation of the gums at some point during their pregnancy. The inflammation is called gingivitis and can lead to gums that are sore, red and puffy, and bleed when you brush or floss.

In addition to gingivitis, you may find that plaque builds up on your teeth more than usual. This is a normal occurrence as well.

What Are Pregnancy Gum Tumors?

Some soon-to-be-mothers also experience pregnancy tumors, also known as pyogenic granulomas, which are tissue growths on the gums that can bleed easily. The growths are non-cancerous and tend to disappear after pregnancy.

Gum Disease and Pregnancy Santa Barbara CA
Pregnancy and Oral Health Santa Barbara CA

How Does the Health of My Teeth and Gums Affect My Body?

The two main concerns your Santa Barbara dentist has during your pregnancy are tooth decay and gum disease.

Dental Decay

Cavities can lead to pain and infection, both of which can wreak havoc on your overall health. If you do experience a dental emergency, your dentist can help you get out of pain and remedy the situation quickly. However, we know you're on the same page with us when we say that we would both like to avoid an emergency and stick to preventative dental care only during your pregnancy, if possible.

Gum Disease

Gum disease creates an inflammatory reaction in your body. Inflammation can lead to many serious health issues, one of which is heart disease. Preventing gum disease - and therefore heart disease - is something we want to do for every patient, but especially for moms and their still-developing babies.

What Is Preventative Dentistry?

Preventative dental care from your Santa Barbara dentist includes:

A regular dental exam will help your dentist identify dental issues early. The sooner problems are caught, the easier they are to take care of and the less chance there is of tooth or gum discomfort.

Dental cleanings are a preventative step that will help remove plaque and calcified plaque (tartar or calculus). Plaque removal will help prevent both dental decay and gum disease.

Can I Get Dental X-Rays While Pregnant?

You might be worried about the health of your baby and digital x-rays, but we take every precaution to keep you safe. We always cover our patients with special aprons to prevent radiation exposure. Plus, by utilizing digital x-rays over traditional x-rays, we cut down on the radiation exponentially.

 Santa Barbara CA

Why Is Preventative Dental Care at Home Important During Pregnancy?

In addition to seeing your dentist regularly during your pregnancy, it's also imperative that you take steps to care for your teeth at home. Included in preventative dental home care are your oral hygiene habits and your diet. Morning sickness can also affect the teeth if vomiting is frequent.

What Should My Dental Home Care Routine Be?

Your dental home care routine should consist of three categories:

Brushing

Brush at least twice a day. If possible, brush after each meal to prevent bacteria and acids from damaging your teeth. An electric toothbrush is a great investment as it typically removes more plaque than a manual toothbrush, while still being gentle on your gums.

Flossing

Floss is the only thing that can get below the gum line. Floss at least once daily using a c-shaped flossing technique to ensure you not only clean in between the teeth but that you get down into the gum pockets.

Fluoride

Use fluoride toothpaste to provide an added barrier of protection against decay.

What If I Get Morning Sickness?

If you experience morning sickness that causes vomiting, you can rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed in warm water to prevent stomach acids from attacking the teeth.

How Can My Diet Help Keep My Gums Healthy During Pregnancy?

Nutrient-rich foods are not only good for fetal development but they are also good for your health. Eating foods high in naturally occurring vitamins and minerals will keep your bones and teeth strong. Certain vitamins - including B12, C, and calcium - will promote gum health as well.

How Often Should I See a Dentist During Pregnancy?

During your pregnancy, you are 100% focused on your baby. Remember to take some time to care for your needs and comfort as well. Spending just a few minutes each day on dental home care and scheduling regular preventative dental care appointments, including a yearly exam and twice yearly cleanings, will help you stay healthy and comfortable during your pregnancy.

Meet Dr. Omid

Dr. Omid Barkhordar, DDS has earned his reputation as a leading family and cosmetic dentist in Santa Barbara, the Central Coast, and Southern California. He is committed to providing patients of all ages with compassionate care.

From general dentistry to advanced procedures, Dr. Omid uses innovative technology and gentle techniques to deliver safe and stress-free dental care so patients can enjoy a painless, healthy, and gorgeous smile.

Dr. Omid earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Southern California (USC) School of Dentistry in one of the best dental programs in the United States. His dedication to helping patients achieve their perfect smile has earned Dr. Omid the continued trust and recommendation of many clients.

No matter the age or needs of the patient, Dr. Omid is committed to helping you discover the benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile.

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Dr. Omid Barkhordar

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