Teeth whitening is a procedure to improve the color of your teeth, making them more attractive. It involves chemically removing dental stains using bleaching agents. However, teeth whitening treatment is not considered safe for everyone. Read on to learn about teeth whitening while pregnant.
Types of Teeth Whitening
There are two primary teeth whitening in Temecula, CA, to brighten your smile. They are in-office or professional teeth whitening and at-home teeth whitening. In-office involves applying hydrogen peroxide to teeth and then shining a light on them. The dentist may use UV, LED, or lasers to activate the bleaching process.
As a result, the procedure is fast and has better and longer-lasting results compared to at-home whitening. The expert uses whitening systems like ZOOM®, Opalescence, customized trays, and lasers. These are ideal for removing stains that cannot be eliminated through at-home whitening.
At-home whitening can be done using store-bought products or those found at home. These include whitening strips, toothpaste, pens, mouth rinses, baking soda, strawberries, and turmeric. It can also be done using kits designed by the dentist, like whitening trays.
Who Should I Consult About Using Whitening Strips While Pregnant, My Dentist or My Healthcare Provider?
Your healthcare provider is usually among the first to know when you are pregnant. It is because you must visit them for antenatal care. The obstetric team will advise you about changes you should make to maintain good health for you and the unborn baby. For example, they will counsel you about maintaining excellent oral health.
However, when you have questions about your teeth, the best person to ask is a dentist near you. Dentists are trained to achieve and maintain excellent oral health for all individuals. They anticipate changes in oral health and provide appropriate treatment throughout the pregnancy.
So, you should consult the dentist about using teeth whitening strips while pregnant. The dental professional knows how bleaching agents affect your mouth. They will educate you about the dangers of whitening your teeth while pregnant. In addition, the dentist will provide safe alternatives to a whiter smile.
Keeping Your Smile White and Healthy During Pregnancy
Achieving and maintaining a brighter smile during pregnancy is possible if you follow the tips below.
- Brush at least twice every day with fluoride toothpaste and a brush with soft bristles. If you cannot brush due to nausea, use antibiotic mouth rinses frequently. You can also brush with warm saline water to eliminate bacteria that stain teeth.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products. The nicotine in them can stain your teeth and lead to other oral health issues.
- Visit the dentist for checkups at least every three months. The expert will help keep your teeth whiter through professional cleanings.
- Avoid sugary, acidic, or colored drinks as they interfere with the color of your teeth. Instead, take healthy beverages like water, milk, unsweetened yoghurt, and fruit juices.
- Rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda in one cup of water.
- Keep your mouth hydrated by eating foods that promote saliva production and taking plenty of water. Doing so eliminates food debris that can lead to dental staining.
- Press mashed strawberries to your teeth, leave them in place for five minutes, then rinse your mouth. The acids will help dissolve stains on your teeth. However, do not do this too often since the acids can damage your tooth enamel.
Role of a Dentist During Pregnancy
Your body undergoes various changes once you become pregnant. Some of these changes directly impact your oral health. Examples are nausea, vomiting, increased hormones, and dietary changes. They increase your risk for gum inflammation, decay, cavities, and tooth mobility increases.
Therefore, you need the help of a dentist while pregnant. A dentist will help you maintain excellent dental health. It will safeguard your health and that of the baby. For example, they will clean your mouth regularly, preventing oral health issues. They will also treat or help you avoid or manage the abovementioned problems.
Are you pregnant and looking for a dental team to provide excellent dental care? Then contact us at Elevate Dental. We will provide safe treatments for a healthy and attractive smile during pregnancy.