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TeethFirst!

Healthy teeth for you and your baby

A healthy pregnancy includes having a healthy mouth! It’s important to keep up your healthy dental habits now that you’re pregnant.  This includes:

  • Brushing 2-3 times daily with a soft bristle toothbrush — and using toothpaste with fluoride to strengthen your teeth.
  • Cleaning between your teeth — don’t forget to floss every night before bed!
  • If you have any morning sickness, be sure to rinse your mouth out well after vomiting using water, a fluoride rinse, or mouthwash. Acid reflux or vomiting can weaken your teeth if you don’t rinse thoroughly.

Seeing your dentist for a regular checkup is a part of good prenatal care, too.  Routine care such as exams, cleanings, and x-rays (with shielding) is all safe and recommended for pregnant women. Untreated dental problems during your pregnancy could become serious health issues for you and your baby, so be sure to see your dentist for regular checkups while you are pregnant.

You should also start to plan how you will care for your new baby’s mouth and teeth.  Did you know that a baby’s first visit to the dentist is recommended by age one? Going to the dentist by age one will help your baby’s teeth start healthy and stay healthy.

At the first visit, the baby usually sits on your lap while the dentist does a gentle exam, cleaning, and maybe an x-ray of your baby’s mouth. Just like a checkup with a pediatrician, you’ll talk about how to keep your baby’s teeth healthy and when to come back for another visit.

Your family dentist may not see babies, but they can help you find a dentist who will. You can also contact your pediatrician, health insurance company, or dental insurance company to find a dentist who sees babies in your area. Remember that your baby’s first teeth are important!

This information is included in TeethFirst!’s newest bilingual resource for expectant parents, Healthy Teeth For You and Your Baby.  You can order copies of the brochure, and other TeethFirst! materials, using this order form, or emailinginfo@teethfirstri.org.

TeethFirst! Creating healthy smiles for a lifetime.