Q During pregnancy do I need to take extra care to look after my teeth?

A The type of lifestyle you live during pregnancy affects your health as well as the health of your unborn child. Of course, with the preparations you need to make during pregnancy, you can be forgiven for not having your dental health as top priority.

But it is important to maintain a healthy dental care routine to avoid conditions like pregnancy gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Because your teeth are made of minerals similar to your bones, it’s important to take in calcium. Taking in the right amount of calcium, will aid the development of strong teeth and bones in your baby. Not only that, but it will also help to keep your bones strong, too.

Due to the changes in hormones during pregnancy, you’re more at risk of developing periodontal disease. That’s why it is important for pregnant women to visit their dentist for regular check-ups, so any problems can be caught early.

Pregnant women are likely to eat more frequently than normal, sometimes this will involve a lot of sweet, sugary foods. With the additional intake of sugars on a regular basis, the risk of developing cavities increases. This means you should take that extra bit of care with your teeth by cleaning in between them regularly. So, it’s important that you follow proper nutrition, filled with healthy foods that involve plenty of calcium, protein, vitamin C, vitamin D and vitamin A. I’d also recommend rinsing your mouth with an alcohol-free, anti-gingivitis mouthwash, too in order to get rid of any germs.

* For more information about dental issues, contact Synergy Dental Clinics Bolton or Bury, email bury@synergydental. org.uk or go to synergydental.org.uk/dentist-in-bury