Moms deserve to be celebrated every day, so if you are a mom, it’s time to give yourself a gift that lasts a lifetime – the gift of dental health.
We understand that busy moms don’t always believe they have the time to take great care of their teeth. But it shouldn’t be that way. By giving your teeth the attention they need – just like you do for your family – you can help preserve your smile for decades.
Women may be more susceptible to oral health problems from dental (bacterial) plaque build-up due to the unique hormonal influences and cycles. They begin during puberty, with the use of hormonal contraceptives, during pregnancy, throughout menopause and beyond.
Hormones affect the blood vessels throughout the body and even the gum tissues, making them more susceptible to periodontal (gum) disease. Hormones also affect many areas of metabolism including bone (as in bone thinning known as osteoporosis). And it is during these hormonal fluctuations that women are more prone to developing periodontal disease and other oral health problems.
Choosing healthy snacks, drinking lots of water, keeping an eye on signs of gum disease, and maintaining regular dental visits prevent the onset of dental health problems.
Some tips for the moms:
1. Be model mom – Your kids look up to you. Dentists know that mothers who make dental health a priority in their own lives set a good example for their kids.
2. Load up on fruits & veggies – Sweets promote tooth decay and gum disease. But fresh fruits and veggies are great for your overall health and your teeth!
3. Take time to de-stress – Stress can lead to teeth grinding, cause TMJ and trigger canker sore and cold sore outbreaks. Try yoga, meditation or other relaxation techniques to take the edge off.
4. Visit your dentist – You wouldn’t let your kids miss a dentist appointment, so why should you? If you’re pregnant, it’s important to continue with regular dental exams.