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Dr. Nichols Nelson, DDS is a top-rated dentist on dentalinsider.com

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05/02/22 Holly M.  The entire staff is amazing rom check in to check out.

04/29/22 Tyler T.  Best dentist I've ever been to.

June 8 2021 Christine M. Excellent care, wonderful staff, very compassionate and caring

July 9, 2020 Derek W. Always prompt and clean. The staff is extremely friendly.

July 3,2020 Crystal H The staff here is wonderful!!! They are so great with children and go above and beyond to make them have a positive experience. 

June 14 2020 Amy S. Everyone at Woodland Dental is super friendly and they alsways take care of there patients needs.

July 9,2019 Terry O. Been going to Woodland Dental from the day they opened. Their staff is extremely welcoming. Dr Zelko and Dr Nelson are excellent with both kids and adults. Truly happy with the whole staff.

 

 

 

 

How to Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy During Pregnancy

By Woodland Dental Group
August 08, 2019
Category: Oral Health
Tags: oral health   pregnancy  
HowtoKeepYourTeethandGumsHealthyDuringPregnancy

While pregnancy is an exciting time for expectant mothers, it can pose extra health challenges. This is especially true regarding dental health.

Because of hormonal changes that naturally occur during pregnancy, your teeth and gums are at higher risk for dental disease. These changes can increase cravings for carbohydrates, particularly sugar. Increased sugar consumption feeds bacteria found in dental plaque, which is most responsible for tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease.

Hormonal changes can also make your gums more susceptible to infection. Conditions may be favorable for a form of gum disease called pregnancy gingivitis, which can begin as an infection in the surface layers of the gums. But like other forms of gum disease, pregnancy gingivitis can advance below the gum line and lead to serious health consequences.

Because of this "pregnancy effect" on your teeth and gums, there are some things to which you should pay heed while you're expecting. First and foremost, keep up a daily regimen of brushing and flossing to remove accumulated dental plaque. You should also control your sugar intake to minimize bacterial growth that can cause disease.

It's also important for you to continue regular dental visits during your pregnancy. Your dentist will monitor your dental health and initiate treatment if you begin to show signs of disease. Besides professional cleanings, your dentist may also prescribe antibacterial mouthrinses to combat bacteria.

As far as dental procedures, essential treatments like fillings, root canals or extractions are usually considered safe to perform during pregnancy. But elective treatments of a cosmetic nature are best postponed until after your baby's delivery.

One last tip: because of the higher risk of tooth decay or gum disease, be on the lookout for any abnormal signs in your mouth. This includes spots on the teeth, tooth pain or swollen, reddened or bleeding gums. If you see any of these signs, see your dentist as soon as possible.

Your teeth and gums are indeed at risk for disease during pregnancy. But daily hygiene, regular dental care and attention to signs of disease can help keep that danger at bay.

If you would like more information on prenatal dental care, please contact us or schedule an appointment for a consultation. You can also learn more about this topic by reading the Dear Doctor magazine article “Dental Care During Pregnancy.”