With
Mother’s Day on March 31, Illume is reminding mothers-to-be that it is a vital time
to take extra care of your oral health.
Many
women experience morning sickness and food cravings at some stage of pregnancy.
It’s essential to look after teeth during this time as teeth and gums can
become more susceptible to gum disease.

Pregnancy
gingivitis is one oral condition you may experience, which includes red,
swollen and puffy gums that bleed easily. Periodontitis, which is a disease
affecting the deeper gum tissue and bone, may already be present and this can
also be more of a problem in pregnancy.
Tim
Rumney, practice owner and clinical director at Illume, explains: “Dental
problems can have a profound impact on the unborn child and there is some
evidence linking untreated periodontitis and low birth weight babies or even
premature delivery.
“That
is why it is so important for all pregnant women to make an appointment to see
a dentist as soon as they can,” he added.
Illume
would like to use this Mother’s Day to encourage expectant mothers to have
healthy teeth and gums by practising good oral hygiene throughout their
pregnancy. The following principles of oral health should be followed:
•
Brush
twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
•
Floss
daily
•
Have
regular dental examinations, or Healthy Mouth Reviews, as we call them at
Illume
•
Follow
a healthy diet
•
Drink
plenty of tap water
•
Reduce
your intake of sugary drinks and food
•
Snack
on healthy food
•
Do
not smoke
If
you would like to make an appointment with one of our dentists, please call us
on 01242 522230.