Pregnancy brings so many changes, from physical to emotional and everything in between. While you’re busy preparing to welcome new life into the world, it can be easy to neglect your own health needs, especially when it comes to your teeth and gums.

In fact, pregnancy is a time when you should pay extra special care to your oral health. Changes to your hormones during pregnancy can lead to an increased risk of gum disease and other issues, making proactive oral care crucial for protecting your own health and your new baby’s.

Here’s a guide to all the changes your mouth and gums could experience during pregnancy, how to stay on top of your oral health during this time and some key signs that it’s time for a trip to the dentist chair.

Why Pregnancy Affects Your Teeth and Gums

Hormonal changes are one of the main reasons that, as an expectant mother, you may experience different issues with your teeth and gums than when not pregnant. These shifts can make your mouth more sensitive and impact your saliva production and oral pH levels.

Due to this, some of the most common conditions experienced during pregnancy include gingivitis, enamel erosion and pregnancy tumours.

Gingivitis involves swelling of the gums and bleeding when brushing or flossing. It typically occurs in trimester two and is caused by increased estrogen and progesterone levels, which make your gums more sensitive to plaque and bacteria.

Many women, unfortunately, suffer from morning sickness during pregnancy. This frequent vomiting exposes your mouth to higher acid levels than usual and can cause enamel erosion. Over time, this can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay.

Pregnancy tumours are non-cancerous growths that can develop in the mouth and gums, again, mainly due to hormonal changes. They typically appear as red growths, are often painless and tend to disappear once the baby has been born.

What You Can Do to Protect Your Oral Health

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine throughout pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of any of these potential dental issues arising. And remember, dentists have lots of experience helping pregnant women through this exciting, yet understandably nerve-wracking time, should any problems arise.

If you already look after your teeth well, not much should need to change in your daily routine. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes each time, ideally after breakfast and before bed. Make flossing a priority to help remove plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush might miss.

It’s also safe to use an alcohol-free, fluoride mouthwash, and doing so can help strengthen enamel and prevent gingivitis.

If you do experience vomiting due to morning sickness, avoid brushing your teeth immediately as the acid can weaken tooth enamel. Instead, rinse your mouth with water and gently brush your teeth using a soft toothbrush around 30 minutes to an hour later.

Staying hydrated throughout the day can help prevent dry mouth and support saliva production, which is crucial for neutralising those acids in the mouth that we mentioned.

Visiting the Dentist During Pregnancy – What to Know

During pregnancy, you’ll likely spend more time at medical appointments than usual, and a trip to the dentist should absolutely be included. Not only is it safe to have your teeth checked during this time, but it’s actively encouraged too.

Tell your dentist as early as possible that you’re pregnant. This will allow them to tailor your dental care plans and ensure the safety of both you and your unborn baby. Remember, your dentist is best placed to offer specific advice about oral health issues during pregnancy so don’t be afraid to ask any questions or raise any concerns that you may have.

The second trimester is generally regarded as the best time to book a dental check-up or schedule any necessary treatment. That’s because morning sickness has typically subsided, and it’s still comfortable for you to lie on your back, making the appointment as smooth as possible.

We’re often asked by pregnant patients whether dental X-rays are safe during this period. The answer is yes. The radiation dose you’re exposed to is very low and won’t cause any harm to you or the baby. Anaesthesia that may be required for some treatments is safe too. Speak to your dentist if you have any concerns and they will be more than happy to discuss them with you.

Warning Signs to Watch For

There are some key warning signs you can look out for that may signify developing dental problems during your pregnancy. If you notice any of these symptoms, book an appointment with your dentist so they can catch and treat any issues early:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Swollen or tender gums or lumps along the gum line
• Bad breath, even after brushing
• Increased tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot, cold or sweet foods

Nutrition Tips for Healthy Teeth and Gums

Prioritising a healthy diet is always important for keeping teeth and gums healthy, but even more so during pregnancy. Eat foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus, such as dairy foods, eggs and salmon. These nutrients help strengthen teeth and bones for both you and your baby.

If you’re craving sugary snacks during pregnancy, try replacing these with healthier alternatives. Try fruit instead of sweets or nuts instead of sugary biscuits.

If you do have something sweeter, try to avoid frequent snacking or grazing throughout the day.

Myths About Dental Care and Pregnancy

Several myths still circulate about pregnancy and dental health, which can cause worry or stress and even discourage people from seeking medical help. Let’s clear up a few of the most common ones:

“You lose a tooth for every baby”

This old wives’ tale is actually not true. While hormonal changes during pregnancy can make you more susceptible to issues like gingivitis, there’s no direct link between pregnancy and tooth loss. If issues are left unaddressed and progress to periodontal disease, tooth loss could occur, but with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, you don’t need to worry about losing a tooth for every baby.

“Dental visits are unsafe during pregnancy”

Seeing your dentist during pregnancy is safe and actually encouraged. Keep them in the loop and be sure to let them know about any issues or symptoms you may be experiencing. It’s important to have your teeth and gums checked for any potential issues. X-rays and certain treatments can also be safely performed during pregnancy, busting this common myth some more.

When to Seek Help

Seeking help early is always a good idea when it comes to protecting your teeth and gums. If you experience symptoms such as bleeding gums, bad breath or increased sensitivity, it’s best to book an appointment as soon as you can. Additionally, any pain that interferes with eating or sleeping is a sure sign that it’s time to see a dentist.

It’s ok if you feel anxious about seeking dental treatment during pregnancy. The team here at KB Village Dental has helped many expectant mothers through a range of dental issues, and we will welcome you with warmth and care at every appointment.

Whether you’re currently pregnant, a new mum, or are simply overdue for a checkup, book an appointment today with KB Village Dental. Our team of qualified and professional dentists is ready to accommodate your needs and make sure you leave with a smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you maintain oral hygiene during pregnancy?

To maintain oral hygiene during pregnancy, brush your teeth twice a day, floss and use mouthwash regularly, avoid sugary snacks and book routine check-ups with your dentist.

Can tooth pain harm a baby during pregnancy?

Yes, severe tooth pain during pregnancy could cause harm to an unborn baby. If left untreated, bacterial infections could lead to complications with pregnancy, such as low birth weight and premature birth.

What are the dental problems during pregnancy?

The most common dental problems experienced during pregnancy are gingivitis, enamel erosion and pregnancy tumours. These are typically caused by hormonal changes and increased acid levels due to morning sickness.