For any mother her baby is very special and important. She would do anything to get her baby off to a healthy start. So why not start it by taking care of oneself . Few points a mother to be can take care of

  • Eat a healthy: Teeth starts developing between third and sixth month of pregnancy. Some nutrients are very essential for development of  teeth such as calcium, proteins, phosphorous and vitamins. Eat an healthy diet to give your baby the best of nutrients for better development of teeth.
  • Avoid snacking in between meals: A mother to be always feels hungry in between meals which is very normal.In between snacks mostly includes the sugary foods. However, these in between meals can cause secretion of acids that can lead tooth decay.When you get the urge to snack try something healthy such as fruits, salad, milk products. This would decrease chances of tooth decay as well as provide you and your baby with healthy nutrition.
  • Avoid smoking and drinking: In pregnancy it can lead to an underweight baby and also affect your unborn baby's dental health (both milk as well as adult teeth).
  • Brush teeth twice daily, use floss to avoid plaque accumulation, decay of teeth.
  • Visit dentist: If you planning to become a mother soon get all your oral examination and treatment done beforehand. Have a routine check up planned with your dentist. 
  • Avoid dental X-rays or any radiation exposure: Low exposure of radiation along with lead apron and thyroid collar could be used in unavoidable circumstances.
  • Take care of your gums (gingiva): During pregnancy there is change in the levels of hormones within a mother's body. These changes can cause the gums to become sore and swollen with a tendency to bleed easily. In some mothers,  small growth called as "pregnancy tumour" can be seen in between the interdental areas (between two teeth). These problems disappear after baby is born. However, the mother can undergo thorough cleaning either during second or early third trimester to help reduce/avoid them.
  • Avoid unnecessary medications: Try and avoid medications during pregnancy. In situations where they are absolutely necessary, common antibiotics and pain medicines can be used. They should be used in the smallest amounts possible to achieve results. A dentist may consult with one's obstetrician before prescribing antibiotics or pain medicine.