Why is Flossing Important During Pregnancy?

Why is Flossing important during pregnancy?

Taking good care of your teeth may help avoid preterm birth (baby born prior to 37/40 weeks), low birth weight (baby born less than 5 pounds 8 ounces), gum disease, and the increase risk for clots.

Is it safe to floss during pregnancy?

Flossing is an interdental cleaner mainly designed to take debris out and keep the buildup of bacteria under control. Brushing alone leaves two surfaces of the teeth without cleaning. The most important thing you can do is to visit your dentist on a regular basis even if you are pregnant to ensure that your gums are healthy and flossing is safe.  

Why am I more at risk of gum disease during my pregnancy?

There is more blood flowing through your body when you are pregnant. There is also a natural increased acidity level in the mouth during pregnancy. In addition, the increased levels of progesterone and estrogen affecting the ligaments and bone that support the teeth can lead to loosen teeth during pregnancy. These three contributing factors enhance the chances of getting gum disease during pregnancy.

What is the recommended dental hygiene during pregnancy?

Brush using a toothbrush with soft bristles twice a day. Floss once a day to clean in between your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water if you have morning sickness to decrease the acidity left over in your mouth. And finally limit the amount of sweets consumed during pregnancy.

Author

Dr. Robert C. Siudmak, F.A.C.O.G., OB/GYN & Aesthetic Medicine Board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist with 40 years of experience in all areas of OB/GYN care. Dr. Siudmak provides women's healthcare based on a philosophy centered on optimizing quality of life, conservative intervention and organ preservation at Total Women’s Healthcare.. As an experienced caring coach to the natural process of childbirth Dr. Siudmak’ has delivered over 15,000 babies while his primary C-section rate is under 18 percent and has successfully performed over 1,200 VBACs. Expanding upon his 30 years of experience with laser treatments, Dr. Siudmak added the MonaLisa Touch® vaginal laser rejuvenation procedure to optimize women’s vaginal health and pain free intimacy.