From being just a dentist to a Mommy dentist!

Dentists. The word makes us (mommies) sit up and take notice. In this age when one of the meals of most of the kids have chocolates, we are quite worried about cavities, a la Colgate Toothpaste ad. So, I decided to interview one of the mommies who is also a dentist. Let's meet Pradnya Madkaiker Ajmera, who is a potpourri of Goan, Maharashtrian, Rajasthani and Gujarati culture. 

How old is your baby? What's her name?

Saumya will complete 2 years in August. 

Tell us about your life after motherhood. 

My work needs dedicated hours of practice, just like a baby does. As a professional and as a mother, I am still learning and progressing towards perfection.

How was working during pregnancy?

Working was more of a challenge and not a necessity. It was both fun and exciting with all those weird changes taking place in the body and of course, hormonal imbalances. Also, being a dentist had its drawbacks as I had to be very cautious about X-ray radiations. With frequent episodes of nausea and vomiting, I was almost on the verge of quitting, but kept on going with motivation and support. Disbelievingly, I worked up to 7 months of pregnancy. 

When did you resume work after delivery?

After a break of almost 18 months as I strictly wanted to breastfeed my kiddo and see her growing up. I wanted to be with her while she covers her every milestone. It's mesmerizing to see the baby crawl, stand-up, speak her first word. Those 18 months are the best phase of my motherhood. 

As a mother, what measures do you take?

I follow very basic measures of safety and nutrition for my baby. I have made my home and room child safe. I have learnt preparing a lot of healthy tasty dishes. I teach her to be independent. 

How does Saumya take your being away from home?

To my surprise, she responds very positively and calmly. She has understood my routine and never makes fuss or shows tantrums. She knows exactly when she needs to do or ask for something. What else could I have asked of from her!

What things should kid avoid?

Being a dentist, I feel anything in excess has to be avoided. Healthy food and eating habits should be inculcated as soon as a mother starts weaning. I strongly recommend to avoid packaged drinks and food, too much sweet and sticky foods. Also too much exposure to electronic devices.

How soon should babies start brushing?

Brushing should begin as soon as you those first cute teeth popping out. Use finger brush with mild pressure initially and then baby brush accordingly. Toothpaste needs to be avoided till the child understands to spit out completely. Tongue cleaning is equally important. Use gauze wrapped around your finger to clean tongue. Best is to avoid tongue cleaners till 3 years of age. Make a habit of brushing twice every day. Visit dentist every 6 months to eliminate any fear of doctor from the kid's mind.

How do you balance work and baby?

It becomes difficult at times to manage baby and home and clinic. But I want my daughter to understand that this is life. We need to be patient and hopeful. Every day when she waves me goodbye with a sweet kiss on my cheek, I am delighted by the sparkle in her eyes. 

How do you inspire Saumya as a working mother?

It is not me but she who inspire me to keep going. 

How does your husband and in-laws support you?

They make my life complete. They have been a constant support throughout, be it pregnancy or early days of motherhood. Without them, I would not have been able to give Saumya a family life wherein she enjoys bonding, sharing, family values, elderly love and affection. All this has made me more receptive and adaptive to the drastic changes that have happened post pregnancy. A big thanks to them for being there.