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.