Now that you're pregnant, your body is going to be going through a lot of changes, including hormonal changes. Those hormonal changes can directly, and indirectly, affect your teeth. In fact, during pregnancy, you're at an increased risk for tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. That's why it's so important for you to take special care of your teeth while you're pregnant. Here are four steps that will help keep your teeth healthy during pregnancy.

Visit Your Dentist

As soon as you find out your pregnant, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist. This initial visit will allow your dentist to give your teeth a thorough cleaning, which will help keep them healthy. Once you enter your final trimester of pregnancy, you should schedule follow-up visit with your dentist. This visit will allow your dentist to identify dental problems that you might have missed.

Drink Extra Water

While you're pregnant, you may experience dry mouth. Unfortunately, a dry mouth is the perfect breeding ground for germs and bacteria. To help keep your mouth moist, and to promote natural saliva production, you should drink extra water while you're pregnant. Try to keep a bottle of fresh water with you at all times. That way you'll be able to stay hydrated, and protect your teeth at the same time.

Protect Against Morning Sickness Damage

If you suffer from morning sickness during your pregnancy, you'll need to provide extra protection for your teeth. You might not realize this, but the stomach acid contained in vomit can eat away at the enamel on your teeth. Over time, you may begin to notice that your enamel is thinning, which can lead to sensitive teeth, and an increased risk of tooth decay. To prevent tooth damage associated with morning sickness, rinse your mouth after each bout. You should avoid brushing your teeth after vomiting, because your enamel will be soft, and the bristles may cause damage.

Know the Signs of Gum Disease

During pregnancy, you may experience an increased risk of gum disease. To catch the problem early, you should know the signs of gum disease. If you develop any of the symptoms described below, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible.

• Red, swollen gums

• Bleeding when brushing your teeth

• Bad breath that doesn't go away with brushing

If you're pregnant, you need to protect your teeth. Be sure to talk to your dentist about other ways to keep your teeth healthy during pregnancy.