Children’s teeth grinding, medically known as bruxism, is a habit many toddlers pick up, especially during sleep. The sound of your little one grinding their teeth can be concerning, and you might be left wondering if this is normal.
You’re not alone in this worry, and more importantly, we’re here to assure you that teeth grinding is fairly common amongst toddlers. Just as they are learning to navigate the world around them, they are also discovering how their bodies work – and that includes their mouth and teeth.
Although it’s a common occurrence, it’s still important to keep a watchful eye. By understanding what teeth grinding is, its causes, and its effects, you can ensure your child maintains a healthy smile.
At Granite Belt Dental, we have a team of skilled family dentists and therapists who prioritise your comfort and ease during each visit. Whether you’re in search of a family dental clinic with experience in treating gum disease in Warwick, Inglewood, or Stanthorpe, contact us directly or schedule an appointment online.
Kids grind their teeth for a variety of reasons. Just as each child is unique, the reasons for their teeth grinding are also diverse and might include stress, teething, misaligned teeth, growth and development, and more. Let’s look at each in more detail.
Just like adults, children grind their teeth due to stress or anxiety. This might surprise you, but children do experience stress. They may not have work deadlines or bills to pay, but changes in their routine, conflicts in school, or even a new sibling can stir up feelings of anxiety.
The discomfort of new teeth poking through the gums can lead some children to grind their teeth. Teething can be an uncomfortable time, and grinding might provide some relief.
If your child’s teeth aren’t properly aligned, they might grind them unconsciously. This could be a simple habit, or their body’s way of trying to adjust to the misalignment.
During certain stages of growth and development, children may grind their teeth without any identifiable cause. This grinding often stops once they reach a new developmental stage.
Remember, while these reasons can explain why your child might be grinding their teeth, it’s best to seek professional advice if you’re concerned.
Identifying whether your child is grinding their teeth can often be a bit tricky. While some children make a noticeable grinding noise, others are silent grinders. To put your mind at ease, here are some common signs and symptoms that may indicate your child is grinding their teeth:
While occasional teeth grinding may not cause significant problems, constant grinding can lead to several issues if left unchecked:
Persistent grinding can wear down tooth enamel, chip teeth, and increase sensitivity. Over time, it could even affect the structure and alignment of your child’s permanent teeth.
Bruxism can lead to jaw discomfort and even contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause pain and difficulties in jaw movement.
The constant grinding can interrupt a good night’s sleep, leading to sleep issues and fatigue.
Regular grinding can cause your child to wake up with a headache or an earache.
Understanding these effects can be a bit daunting, but remember that with early detection, these problems are entirely preventable.
A typical diagnosis of bruxism might include:
Armed with this information, your dental team will be able to recommend a treatment plan for your child.
While teeth grinding can feel daunting, there are several effective treatments available to manage the issue and prevent further dental damage:
Have you noticed some signs of teeth grinding in your child? Wondering what the next step is? This is where the friendly team at Granite Belt Dental steps in.
If you’re in the Granite Belt area, our experienced Stanthorpe and Warwick dentists can perform a thorough examination of your child’s mouth, teeth, and jaw to diagnose teeth grinding. To experience the difference that Granite Belt Dental can make for your child’s oral health, contact us or book an appointment online today.
Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure that prevents further issues from a severely infected or decayed tooth. Despite its somewhat intimidating reputation, the root canal procedure is a relatively routine and mostly painless one, thanks to modern anaesthetic techniques.
In this blog, we look at just what a root canal is, when it might be necessary, what the procedure is like and more. So whether you’re wondering if you might need one or if you just want to find out a bit more before your root canal treatment, we have you covered.
Granite Belt Dental offers root canal treatments in Warwick, Stanthorpe, and Inglewood. Contact us today or book an appointment!
A root canal is a dental procedure that involves the removal of the pulp – the innermost part of the tooth – which is composed of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. This procedure is necessary when the pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to severe decay, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma.
The purpose of a root canal is to save a tooth that is severely damaged or infected. Left untreated, an infected pulp can cause severe pain and swelling, and the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and even into the bloodstream, leading to the loss of the tooth and other serious health problems (no thank you!). By removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth, dentists can often save the tooth and prevent the spread of infection.
Symptoms that might indicate a need for a root canal include severe toothache when chewing or applying pressure, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discolouration (often darkening) of the tooth, swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums, and a persistent or recurring pimple on the gums (not to be confused with gum disease symptoms). However, sometimes no symptoms are apparent, so regular dental check-ups are essential.
Find out the difference between a root canal vs tooth extraction.
Let’s look at the root canal treatment itself a little more closely.
The first step of a root canal treatment involves numbing the area to be treated. A local anaesthetic is injected to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues. This ensures that the procedure is as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
Once the tooth is numb, a rubber dam is placed around the tooth. This rubber sheet isolates the tooth being treated from the rest of the mouth, preventing bacteria in the saliva from contaminating the tooth and also protecting the patient from swallowing any dental materials or instruments.
The dentist will then drill a small access hole into the crown of the tooth to reach the dental pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. It extends from the crown of the tooth down into the roots. The dentist uses small metal files and disinfectant to clean out the infected pulp and shape the canals to receive the filling material.
After the pulp has been removed and the inside of the tooth has been cleaned and disinfected, the empty root canal is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This rubber-like material is heated and compressed into the tooth, where it cools and seals the space.
The gutta-percha is then sealed with dental cement to prevent bacteria from re-entering the root canal system. The final step is restoring the crown of the tooth with a filling or a crown, which helps to protect the tooth and restore its function.
Dental X-rays are a critical part of root canal treatment. They are usually taken before the treatment to evaluate the extent of the infection, during the treatment to guide the cleaning and shaping of the canals, and after the treatment to confirm that the canals have been adequately cleaned and filled. These images allow the dentist to see the internal structures of the tooth that are not visible to the naked eye.
The length of a root canal treatment varies widely depending on several factors, including the severity of the infection or damage, the number of canals in the tooth (molars have more than front teeth), and the complexity of the procedure.
On average, a root canal treatment takes between 90 minutes to 3 hours per session and usually takes 2 to 3 sessions.
During the first visit, the dentist will remove the infected or inflamed pulp, clean and shape the root canals, and possibly fill them with a temporary filling material. If the tooth was infected, the dentist might want to leave it open for a few days to allow it to drain, or they may fill it with medication to reduce the infection.
The second visit is typically for the permanent filling of the root canals with gutta-percha. After the canals are filled, a temporary filling is usually placed in the tooth.
If a third visit is needed, it’s typically for the placement of a crown or other restoration to protect the tooth and restore its function. However, the actual fitting and placement of the crown might require an additional visit to the dentist.
Remember, the primary goal of root canal treatment is to save your tooth, and the time investment is well worth it to maintain your natural tooth structure, function, and appearance.
After a root canal, your mouth may feel numb for a few hours until the anaesthesia wears off. Your tooth may be sensitive for a few days, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Most patients can return to their regular activities the next day.
Root canal treatment is highly successful; the procedure has a success rate of over 95%. Many teeth fixed with this treatment can last a lifetime with proper care.
Remember, the best way to prevent the need for a root canal is by maintaining good oral hygiene, eating a balanced diet, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. If you’re looking for a dentist Warwick locals trust, be sure to contact us today. Granite Belt Dental is a leading provider of dental care in the Granite Belt area and our family-friendly team will make sure you get the best results. Don’t hesitate to book an appointment!
In this article, we look at all things teeth whitening, from how it works, to how long it lasts, and so much more.
With around 22% of Australians whitening their teeth (and rising!), it’s a popular endeavour that deserves thorough attention. So grab your favourite whitening kit, sit back with a glass of water (or any other liquid that won’t stain your pearly whites), and let’s get into it.
Granite Belt Dental offers in-person teeth whitening procedures performed by our clinicians for immediate results at Warwick, Stanthorpe, and Inglewood. We also provide customised at-home kits using custom-made whitening trays to achieve improvement in tooth shade over several weeks. Contact us today or book an appointment!
There are a variety of at-home and in-chair ways to whiten your teeth.
Most treatments use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide for this purpose, as these chemicals are effective bleaching agents and considered to be well-researched and relatively safe.
When teeth are treated with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, these chemicals break down into oxygen molecules that penetrate the tooth’s enamel and dentin layers. The oxygen molecules react with the discoloured molecules in the teeth, breaking them down and effectively whitening them.
The strength of the tooth whitening gel used varies based on whether the treatment is completed at a dental clinic or at home. Dentists can use higher-strength whitening gels than those available for at-home use, as they are trained professionals who can ensure proper application and safety precautions.
Whitening toothpastes may also contain hydrogen peroxide at levels of 1 to 5% to help whiten teeth, although these lower concentrations are generally less effective than professional teeth whitening.
Additionally, some toothpastes contain phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (PAP) (try saying that three times fast… or even just once!), another organic peroxide that acts as a bleaching agent. PAP functions similarly to hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, helping to break down stains and discolouration on the tooth surface.
Whitening pens feature a slim, compact design that allows for easy transport in a purse or pocket. Their structure consists of a thin, plastic tube containing a whitening gel, which can be applied directly to the teeth using a built-in brush or applicator. This targeted application ensures that the whitening agent reaches the stained areas on the tooth’s surface, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
LED teeth whitening is an efficient method for achieving a brighter smile in less time compared to traditional whitening treatments. This approach is safe, fast, and convenient, making it an attractive option for those seeking quick and visible results.
To use an LED light, a specially formulated gel or serum containing hydrogen or carbamide peroxide is first applied to the teeth. The LED device, emitting blue or indigo light, is then used to activate the bleaching agent, making it work more rapidly to remove stains from the tooth surface.
The treatment typically lasts between 10 to 30 minutes, and it is crucial not to exceed the time limit specified in the LED teeth whitening kit instructions. The LED light works by having a photochemical impact on the tooth surface, activating the hydrogen peroxide in the whitening serum, and accelerating the bleaching process.
Teeth whitening strips are thin, flexible, plastic strips that are coated with a whitening gel containing a peroxide-based bleaching agent. They are a popular over-the-counter solution designed for at-home use. The strips come in pairs, with one strip for the upper teeth and another for the lower teeth.
Strips can be an effective and affordable option for those looking to improve the appearance of their teeth. However, the results may not be as long-lasting or dramatic as those achieved through professional dental procedures. It is also essential to follow the product instructions and to be aware of potential side effects such as tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.
Teeth whitening results can vary depending on the method used. At-home products may provide poor-to-great whitening results that last for a few months. On the other hand, professional dental procedures can offer more significant and longer-lasting results, with the effects potentially lasting up to 2-3 years. Keep in mind that individual results may vary, and maintaining good oral hygiene practices can help prolong the effects.
It’s important to note that teeth whitening is not a permanent solution, and maintenance is required to keep teeth looking bright. Regular dental cleanings, avoiding staining substances like coffee, tobacco, and red wine (teeth whiteners are not popular at parties), and using whitening toothpaste can help maintain the results of professional whitening treatments.
Teeth whitening, when done correctly and under the supervision of a dental professional, is generally considered safe and should not damage teeth. However, there are potential risks and side effects associated with at-home methods, especially if the treatment is not performed correctly or if the user has pre-existing dental issues.
Some potential risks and side effects include:
It is important to consult a dental professional before using any teeth whitening product to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. Additionally, pregnant women and new mothers should avoid whitening their teeth, as the chemicals used in the treatment can enter the placenta and breast milk, posing potential risks to the baby.
Granite Belt Dental is proud to offer professional, in-chair, teeth whitening services and custom-fitti kits as part of our cosmetic dentistry services from our offices in Stanthorpe, Warwick, and Inglewood. If you live in the Granite Belt area and want to add a little shine to your smile, contact us today or book an appointment!
In this blog, we look at all things gum disease; the symptoms, causes, and how to treat them! Your oral health is a crucial aspect of your overall well-being, and gum disease is one of the most common dental issues. It affects millions of people worldwide, and if left untreated, can lead to severe oral health complications, including tooth loss. In this post, we’ll delve into the nitty-gritty of gum disease, helping you to understand its causes, identify the symptoms, and explore effective treatment options.
So, whether you’re seeking preventative measures or suspect you might be experiencing the early stages of gum disease, read on to arm yourself with the knowledge you need to maintain a healthy, radiant smile.
At Granite Belt Dental, we have a team of skilled family dentists and therapists who prioritise your comfort and ease during each visit. Whether you’re in search of a family dental clinic with experience in treating gum disease in Warwick, Inglewood, or Stanthorpe, contact us directly or schedule an appointment online.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health issue affecting the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If plaque is not adequately removed through proper oral hygiene, it can harden into tartar, which further exacerbates gum problems.
Gum disease can be broadly categorised into two stages:
Preventing and treating gum disease involves maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. In more advanced cases, professional dental treatments like scaling and root planing or surgical interventions may be required to manage the condition.
Gum disease can manifest in various symptoms that impact different areas of the mouth. It is essential to recognise these signs early to prevent further complications and maintain good oral health.
If you suspect that you have gum disease, contact your dentist today. If you live in the Granite Belt area, contact us today! We are experts in gum disease treatments and can help you mitigate symptoms and slow the spread of the disease. With offices in Stanthorpe, Warwick, and Inglewood, we are here to help.
Gum disease is primarily caused by the buildup of dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. When plaque is not removed daily through proper oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing, it can harden and transform into tartar. Tartar build-up exacerbates gum disease, and once formed, it cannot be removed through regular at-home dental care. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can effectively eliminate tartar.
While plaque and tartar buildup are the main culprits, several risk factors can increase an individual’s susceptibility to gum disease, such as smoking. Smoking not only increases the risk of developing gum disease but also hinders the efficacy of gum disease treatments.
Hormonal changes in girls and women, such as those experienced during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can also heighten the risk of gum disease. These fluctuations in hormone levels can make the gums more sensitive, allowing gingivitis to develop more easily.
Certain illnesses and their associated medications can also contribute to gum disease. Diabetes, for example, can impair an individual’s ability to fight infections, including those in the mouth. Similarly, AIDS and its related medications can also weaken the immune system, making the gums more susceptible to infections. Additionally, genetics can play a role in an individual’s predisposition to gum disease, making some people inherently more vulnerable to this oral health issue.
Being aware of these risk factors can help individuals take preventative measures, maintain good oral hygiene, and seek timely dental care to minimise the risk of gum disease and its associated complications.
The primary objective of gum disease treatment is to control infection and prevent its progression. The types of treatments needed depend on the severity of the disease. Regardless of the treatment approach, it is essential for the patient to maintain good daily oral care at home. In some cases, the dentist may recommend lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.
Nonsurgical treatments for periodontitis include less invasive procedures such as:
For advanced periodontitis, surgical treatments may be necessary. These include:
To keep your gums and teeth healthy, follow these helpful tips:
By adhering to these practices and seeking timely dental care, you can significantly reduce the risk of gum disease and maintain a healthy, radiant smile.
Usually, around the age of six, a child’s primary teeth, also known as baby teeth, start to loosen and fall out to allow permanent teeth to grow, although this process can sometimes be delayed by about a year or so.
As a parent, you may have questions about your child’s tooth development, such as when do baby teeth come in, how many baby teeth do we have, and when do baby teeth fall out. In this article, we will provide answers to these questions and more. Understanding your child’s tooth development can help you ensure that their teeth and gums stay healthy and strong as they grow. So, let’s dive in!
The importance of baby teeth lies in their ability to assist your child with efficient chewing and proper speech. On top of this, baby teeth act as placeholders for the permanent teeth to ensure their proper positioning in the jaw. That is why it is vital to maintain good oral hygiene practices to protect primary teeth against infections, cavities, and discomfort. Additionally, damage to baby teeth can lead to severe consequences for the underlying permanent teeth!
Teething is the process in which an infant’s teeth emerge through the gums. It is a normal and natural part of a child’s development, although it can be uncomfortable for them. Teething can start as early as three months old, although the first tooth typically emerges when the baby is between four to seven months old.
During the teething process, the baby’s gums may be swollen, and they may experience discomfort, irritability, and a desire to bite or chew on objects. As a parent or caregiver, it’s important to be patient and provide soothing remedies like cold objects to help relieve the baby’s discomfort.
It’s also important to note that every child is different, and some babies may experience teething earlier or later than others. However, if your child has not started teething by the time they are 18 months old, it’s recommended to consult a paediatrician to ensure that everything is developing normally.
Yes! It is quite rare, but babies can be born with teeth, which are called natal teeth.
Natal teeth are more common in the lower jaw, and they are usually not fully formed teeth and may be loose and wobbly, as they have not had time to fully develop roots.
The exact cause of natal teeth is not known, but they may be associated with certain medical conditions or genetic disorders. If a baby is born with teeth, it is important to have them examined by a healthcare professional to make sure there are no underlying medical conditions and to ensure that the baby can feed properly without injuring the mother.
The first teeth that appear are usually the two bottom front teeth, also known as the central incisors. These teeth are essential for the baby’s development as they are needed for biting and chewing food. After the central incisors have emerged, the surrounding teeth typically follow suit, with the top front teeth (central incisors) appearing shortly after.
Like adult teeth, baby teeth also have roots. However, the reason why we have baby teeth is that the adult teeth are too large to fit in a child’s developing jaw. Even though they are not permanent, baby teeth still have to perform essential functions such as chewing and assisting with speech, much like adult teeth do, and so they need nerve roots to function properly.
Did you know your child has all of their baby teeth at birth? They’re just hidden behind the gums! That’s right, at birth, babies possess a total of 20 primary teeth consisting of 4 central incisors, 4 lateral incisors, 4 canine teeth, 4 first molars, and 4 second molars. These teeth are distributed equally on both sides of the upper and lower jaws. As your child grows, their jaw will also develop to accommodate their teeth.
As mentioned, a child’s baby teeth usually start to loosen and fall out around the age of 6, creating space for permanent teeth to grow. But, in some cases, this process may be delayed by up to a year.
The teeth that are typically shed first are the lower and upper central incisors, which are the two bottom front teeth and two top front teeth, respectively. Following them are the lateral incisors, first molars, canines, and second molars, although again, this varies.
Normally, baby teeth remain in position until they are displaced by permanent teeth. However, if a child loses a primary tooth prematurely due to tooth decay or an injury, a permanent tooth may migrate into the unoccupied area, resulting in overcrowding and crookedness of the permanent teeth.
Our dentists say “No, try and let your child’s baby teeth fall out naturally.”. When a child has a loose tooth, it can be challenging for them to chew, and you might be tempted to help with the removal. Nonetheless, it is crucial to let the tooth fall out naturally. Although the loose tooth may be causing discomfort or sensitivity to your child, it is advisable to be patient and avoid attempting to extract it forcibly as that can make it worse!
At Granite Belt Dental, we have a team of skilled family dentists and therapists who prioritise your comfort and ease during each visit. Our gentle and compassionate approach ensures that your family feels relaxed and comfortable throughout the appointment. Whether you’re in search of a top-notch family dental clinic in Warwick, Inglewood, or Stanthorpe, we encourage you to get in touch with us. You can contact us directly or schedule an appointment online.
SUGAR CONTENT
And Tooth Decaying Properties of Foods
Foods high in sugar can take away children’s appetites for more nutritious foods and can contribute to tooth decay.
It’s not only the amount of sugar in foods that should be looked at when considering children’s teeth. Foods that are sticky or that cling to children’s teeth are much more likely to contribute to decay.
Foods that are sticky should be served at meal times with other foods and drinks (e.g. water or milk) or just prior to brushing teeth so that the food does not cling to the teeth for long periods of time and contribute to tooth decay.
NO ADDED SUGAR
NO ADDED SUGAR does not indicate that a food is low in sugar. It just means that no extra sugar has been added to the product. The product may be naturally high in sugar such as no added sugar 100% fruit juice.
AIM TO PROMOTE NON STICKY FOODS AND FATS THAT DO NOT CONTAIN EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF SUGAR
We’ve all been there before – battling it out with our kids to not only brush their teeth but to brush long enough to prevent cavities and gum disease. Battle no more! Plaque Glo is a fun and easy way to motivate kids to brush their teeth that will leave everyone smiling!
Even if your kids are brushing their teeth regularly, they may be leaving behind some plaque. Plaque, a result of food and saliva bacteria mix, is a colourless film that sits on the teeth and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. The trouble with plaque is that it is tooth coloured and difficult to see. People can clean their teeth and still miss the hard-to-get-to places such as near the gums and in between the teeth. Brushing would be easier for kids if plaque was highlighted and more obvious – that’s where Plaque Glo comes in! The Plaque Glo toothpaste and torch system helps track down the invisible plaque. Plaque Glo contains a plaque stain, which will only be visible under the blue light supplied within. This shows kids where plaque remains after their usual brushing technique.
Thumbs In – How to help kids get their thumbs out
True or False?
Thumb-sucking is a sign of insecurity
False. Thumb-sucking originates from baby’s biological need to suck and is part of normal development. The urge is usually reduced during the first year but after this age, sucking becomes a habit which often lingers. It gives the child something to do when bored, stressed, or in need of comfort.
Thumb-suckers are more at risk with teeth problems?
True. If the habit continues after the age of five or six, then your child could need braces.
The most likely problems are protruding and spaced teeth, a narrow jaw and an open bite. The severity of the problem depends on how constant and prolonged the habit is. The reason the habit should be eliminated by six years of age is because the front permanent teeth emerge just after age six. Irreversible effects on the formation of the mouth and jawbone is then likely to occur.
Girls are more likely to suck their thumbs?
True. Equality sets in at birth with both boys and girls sucking their thumbs. However, after the age of two, girls are more likely to continue with the habit. According to researchers, this is probably due to sexist social influences such as parents and peers viewing boys who suck their thumbs after two to look babyish and then overly discourage the behaviours. It is more acceptable for a girl to suck her thumb as it continues the air of innocence and cuteness.
Dummies are poor thumb substitutes?
False. There are children who just prefer dummies and interestingly, children usually don’t like both. It is probably a matter of timing. If the thumb is found before a dummy, then that is usually what they stick with. It is easier to break the dummy habit as obviously a thumb is always there.
Thumb-sucking is something which children give up on their own?
True. The habit is reduced with time, with the majority of children giving up on their own accord. Starting school is a good time with peer pressure exerted for them to cease the habit.
Children usually learn other appropriate coping skills to replace thumb-sucking and the actual reflex lessens with age. They learn to verbalise their feelings rather that hide behind the thumb and this reduces the need to soothe anxieties with physical comfort.
How Can you Help?
If thumb-sucking persists beyond the age of five or six.
A problem exists only if your child persists to suck their thumb into their school years or when it takes the place of other vital activities, such as playing and learning.
The top surfaces of your teeth, where the chewing takes place–aren’t smooth and flat.
They are criss-crossed with tiny hills and valleys called pits and fissures.
These are places where decay causing plaque can build up. Some of the pits and fissures are so narrow that even a single bristle from your toothbrush can’t get deep enough to clean them out.
Fissure sealants are a preventative measure to help protect the tooth from future decay in these pits and fissures.
The tooth is first cleaned and prepared with a solution
The sealant is then applied to the prepared area and cured with a special light which sets the sealant for immediate use.
This procedure is completely painless and usually requires no drilling or removal of tooth material.
Pregnancy is an exciting time for women (And their other half!)
However, it is also a challenging time in terms of health.
Changes in hormones mean many women face various health issues including oral health issues.
Many have heard the saying “one tooth is lost with every pregnancy” but this is merely an urban myth.
The truth is, the hormone changes brought about by pregnancy may cause some changes to oral health, but, as with other health issues, and these can be managed effectively.
Whether you are pregnant or not, everyone should maintain good oral hygiene.
It is important to have a daily routine of care established so that you have a good foundation. Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use dental floss to clean between teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach. Just use these simple steps will ensure that plaque (bacteria, saliva and food remnants) does not build up.
Also, visit your dentist regularly – if you need any dental treatment, it may be more comfortable for you to have this done before pregnancy in case you experience nausea or tiredness as your pregnancy progresses.
If you are already pregnant or suspect you are, it is important to inform your dentist as it may affect the type of care necessary for you.
There are many common oral health issues that pregnant women may face.
Again, simple steps can be taken to deal with each issue.
Plaque and gingivitis when you are pregnant, hormonal changes may lead to an increase in the amount of plaque on your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed, it can cause gingivitis or even gum disease. Symptoms include bleeding and swelling of the gums.
Some pregnant women suffer from “pregnancy gingivitis”, with the condition likely to appear in the second trimester.
Here, hormonal changes include bleeding in the gums despite the best possible hygiene measures. Your gums usually revert to normal after baby is born.
If not treated, gingivitis can develop into more severe forms of gum disease such as periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection of the gum tissue that supports the tooth, where the bacteria starts to move deeper and thrive in the gap between the gum and the tooth, causing the attachment of the tooth and its supporting tissues to break down.
If identified, this must be treated as a matter of urgency as gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth-weight in babies.
Morning Sickness
If you suffer from morning sickness and vomiting, the acid from your stomach contents has the potential to dissolve some of the tooth enamel. To avoid damage to your teeth, don’t brush the ‘softened’ tooth enamel if you have just vomited.
Instead, smear some fluoride toothpaste on your teeth and rinse with water or use a fluoride mouth rinse.
Gagging
This can sometimes occur when you are brushing your teeth.
If you feel sick, try to concentrate on your breathing while cleaning your back teeth. Alternatively, you may need to brush without toothpaste.
A fluoride mouth rinse can be used after brushing.
Cravings
Cravings in themselves are not a health issue but if you are frequently snacking on high carbohydrate foods, you may risk getting dental decay. Try to vary the snacks you are eating and choose foods low in sugar, fat and salt but high in fibre. In addition lots of milk and water.
Your Baby’s Oral Health
Mothers-to-be can also directly affect the oral health of their babies.
For example, babies begin to develop their teeth and bones in the fourth month of pregnancy. The calcium and phosphorous they need to do this comes from what you eat. Your baby will need even more of these minerals when you are seven-nine months pregnant.
The best way to obtain these minerals is through the intake of dairy products or, if you’re are having difficulty consuming the recommended amount, your doctor may recommend calcium supplements.
The recommended daily intake for pregnant women is 1 100mg during pregnancy and 1 200 mg while breastfeeding.
Adapted from Australian Dental Association information sheets Aug 2005
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