Oral Care and Women's Health

Proper oral care is important for everyone. Having good or poor oral health can influence not just your mouth, but has been found to be linked to cardiovascular heath, mental health, and other regions in the body (Science Direct). For women oral care is influenced by our bodies differently than men. Along with being influenced by our body, oral health in women influences the body differently in return. 

 How Does a Women's Body Influence Oral Care? 

Everyone needs to take care of their oral health but for women it is even more important because female hormones can cause an increase in oral health problems. Some of these problems may include: 

• Cold sores and canker sores
• Dry mouth
• Changes in taste
• Higher risk of gum disease

Taking extra care of your mouth can prevent these added risks by flossing on a regular basis, brushing teeth, gums, and tongue. 

                                  

                                Pregnancy and Oral Care

When a woman becomes pregnant, the importance of oral care becomes even greater, as it is not just her health that she is care for, but because the influence in a person’s cardiovascular health, and connection of blood and baby, it is important that women have good oral care. Nutrients such as calcium, protein, phosphorous, and vitamins (A, C, and D) are important to the strengthening and development of teeth. It is important that these nutrients are consumed for the oral health for both mother and baby. 

  Going to the Dentist

It is important to go to the dentist before and during your pregnancy. Most dentists will not take x-rays if you are pregnant but x-rays at the beginning of the pregnancy are minimal when your baby is small (women’s health.gov). Always remember that getting dental treatment while you are pregnant is entirely safe. The best time to go is early in your pregnancy because you may feel uncomfortable in the chair towards the end of your pregnancy. 

Small Easy Steps to Better Oral Health

1.     Brush your teeth at least twice each day with fluoride toothpaste 

2.     Have a healthy lifestyle

3.     Get regular checkups 

4.     Follow your dentists advice

5.     If you have another health problem, think about how it may affect your oral health 

References: 

Google Images 

http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/oral-health.html

http://www.sciencedirect.com.byui.idm.oclc.org/science/article/pii/S0964339713000360