1. Pregnant women should not use pastes with high concentrations of fluoride

At the beginning, a reminder – oral hygiene during pregnancy is very important, as caries in pregnant women has an unfavorable effect on fetal development, pregnancy and delivery. Ladies expecting the offspring should, however, reach for pastes with a concentration of fluorine ranging from 1000 to 1500 ppm. Products of this type protect the teeth against caries sufficiently and, on the other hand, do not jeopardize the child’s health. The research shows that long-term intake of large amounts of fluoride by pregnant women may result in lowering the birth weight of the newborn, reduction of the head circumference, and even developmental disorders.

2. Fluoride is included in the composition of psychotropic drugs and rat poison

Fluoride is used in many ways – not only for the production of toothpastes or mouthwashes. We find him, among others in the composition of psychotropic drugs, because it has properties that strengthen the action of some psychoactive substances. In high concentration, fluorine is a poison much worse than lead, so it is used for the production of rat poison or insects. During the Second World War, the Nazis sometimes gave fluorine prisoners to the captured prisoners in order to make them mistype and make them submissive.

3. Fluoride is harmful to health in large quantities

Small amounts of fluoride are essential for maintaining the proper condition of the body. Depending on the age and weight of the human being, the acceptable daily dose of fluoride is from 0.7 to 3.8 mg per day. However, taking larger amounts of this substance may result in serious health problems. Researchers say that excess fluoride can cause problems with magnesium absorption, problems with the pancreas, joints, adrenals and thyroid, as well as deformities of the spine and bones. In addition, in children too high amounts of fluoride may induce lower immunity, learning disabilities and chronic fatigue.

4. Fluoride is also found in food

Many people think that fluoride is an artificial substance that is only added to toothpaste. Meanwhile, you can also find it in every day consumed products. The highest amounts of fluoride are found in black tea infusion, rye bread, cheddar cheese, pork ham and cornflakes. The natural source of this element are also yogurts, lettuce, milk, carrots, apples, bananas and tomatoes.

5. In the United States, residents have applied for fluoridation of water to the government

For the first time, water fluoridation was applied in 1950 in the United States. Even before the completion of full medical tests, it was considered the best method to prevent tooth decay. Over time, however, more and more often people started to notice that the action of fluoride was only local and not systemic, while adding it to water caused darkening and temptation of enamel. In 1978, in Pennsylvania, the residents won a lawsuit in which the harmful effects of fluoridation were proved and it was banned by virtue of the verdict.

Picture Credit: stevepb

The post Facts About Fluoride Everybody Should Know appeared first on Dentistry Articles.

How does pregnancy affect the condition of the mouth?

Changing the diet, nausea, toxicosis, hormonal surges – all this is stress for the teeth and gums. The hormones estrogen and progesterone make the gums especially sensitive to plaque, causing them to become inflamed – this is the so-called gingivitis of pregnant women. In rare cases, even small tumors are formed, which are known as fibromas (or granulomas) of pregnant women. As a rule, they are not dangerous and after the birth of the child dissolve by themselves.

Why is it important to take care of your teeth and gums during pregnancy?
Studies have shown that there is a definite relationship between premature birth, low birth weight and gingivitis. Bacteria from the gums can get into the blood, and through it get to the uterus. In such cases, a chemical reaction is triggered, leading to an increase in the level of prostaglandins – active substances that can cause premature contractions.

How to keep teeth and gums healthy in pregnant women

Do not rush to panic: there are some simple measures that will help you avoid trouble. The most important thing is how to follow the teeth, and especially behind the gum line. It is important to brush your teeth with fluoride paste at least twice a day, and best after every meal. Do not forget to use floss every day. A healthy diet, products with vitamins C and B12 also play an important role. Keep in mind: the less plaque, the less likely the inflammation of the gums and the appearance of tumors. Also, do not forget that professional cleaning of the plaque in the dentist’s office effectively relieves plaque and thereby prevents gingivitis.

The mouthwash is not only resistant to plaque formation, but also strengthens the teeth. In its composition essential oils of herbs and plants – so it is safe for pregnant women. The rinse aid is convenient to carry around and use it during the day when it is not possible to brush your teeth and you need to refresh your breath or get rid of the unpleasant aftertaste. After rinsing your mouth before going to bed, you will protect your gums from inflammation, and your teeth – from plaque and caries.

Do I have to go to the dentist?

You should contact a dentist as soon as you realize that you are pregnant. It is important to schedule an appointment before the end of the first trimester. The doctor will assess the condition of the teeth and make a program of treatment or prevention for the remaining months. This approach will allow you to keep healthy teeth and get rid of unnecessary risks for yourself and your future child.

Dental treatment during pregnancy

Contrary to popular belief, teeth can be treated during pregnancy.

As a rule, planned procedures are allowed throughout the entire pregnancy, but it is best to do this from the fourth to the sixth month. But x-rays during pregnancy are very dangerous, so if there is no serious threat to health, it is better to transfer them to the period after the birth of the child.

When should I urgently run to the doctor?

It often happens that during pregnancy you postpone a trip to a specialist, because I’m not sure if you can be treated. This is dangerous: there are many causes of pain, and only the dentist can judge their seriousness. After the diagnosis is made, the doctor will suggest a scheme whereby pregnant women can be treated with teeth. In acute pain and in emergency situations, when it is necessary to remove the tooth, it is permissible to take measures in any trimester. Thanks to modern techniques you will not have to endure the pain: today, pregnant women are treated with teeth with anesthesia.

Image credit: DariuszSankowski

The post Is It Safe To Go To the Dentist During Pregnancy? appeared first on Dentistry Articles.