First, the mother-to-be will find that the body is going to make a lot of changes in order to prepare for the growth of this new body within. Hormone levels increase during pregnancy, and because of this dental problems are often greater, which increases the need for good oral hygiene.

Commonly, during pregnancy, a woman will notice problems with swollen, bleeding, red and tender gums. This dental problem often occurs during the first trimester, and is a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. It has been found that if gum disease, periodontitis, reaches a more serious stage it may cause low birth weight in babies, and on occasion has been established, by researchers, to cause premature birth.

Therefore, excellent oral health, before and during pregnancy, is a must. This includes thoroughly brushing teeth at least twice a day, in order to properly remove plaque. Flossing daily will remove the remains of food that your toothbrush can't reach. This should also be done daily. You can also brush or scrape your tongue daily, which will remove any bacteria found there. And do make sure to schedule your regular check ups and cleanings.

Getting in the habit of eating only healthy snacks and nutritious meals is especially important during pregnancy. Eating sugary and junk foods are not good for your teeth and gums. And once your little one begins to eat what you eat, he or she will have a good example to follow.

Once your baby arrives, it's important to begin thinking about their teeth as well as yours. Continue all your necessary dental habits described herein. Nursing your child is the healthiest dental choice for your baby. It has been found that suckling at the breast is good for your baby's tooth and jaw development. It has been shown that breastfed babies actually use more of those muscles than do those drinking from a bottle.

Whether you choose to use a bottle from the beginning or a bit later, it is important to avoid baby bottle tooth decay. This is tooth decay in infants and children who drink from a bottle. This disorder destroys teeth and most often occurs in the upper front teeth.

Baby bottle tooth decay is caused when sweetened liquids are given to the child and then are left clinging to an infant's teeth for long periods of time. This can be caused by any number of sweet liquids, including milk, formula and fruit juice.

Just as with adult decay, the sugar in the drink produces acids that can attack the teeth. Every time your child drinks from the bottle, acids can attack for 20 minutes or longer. Decay can set in after many of these attacks and damage the teeth.

So it's best to avoid allowing the child to fall asleep with the bottle in his or her mouth. This can circumvent baby bottle tooth decay. Also, after each feeding, use a clean gauze to wipe the baby's gums. Once that the child's first teeth have erupted, begin to brush your child's teeth daily.

Make sure to bring your child in to see a dentist at the first sign of possible decay, or sometime after six months of age. We will not only check the child's teeth but also teach you proper care of a baby's unerrupted teeth and gums.

Bright Side Dental is a Michigan family dental specialist. We will take care of your entire family. With dentist locations in Canton, Sterling Heights and Livonia, we are here for you.