Pregnancy and oral health

Taking good care of yourself during pregnancy affects not only your own health but also the health of your baby. Did you know:

1. your baby’s teeth begin to form at 5 to 6 weeks of pregnancy

2. some women may have sore, bleeding gums during pregnancy

3. daily brushing and flossing, a healthy diet and regular dental visits will keep your teeth and gums healthy during and after pregnancy

4. some people believe that a tooth is lost for every pregnancy. This is not true.

What can I do to have good dental health?

Keep your mouth clean by:

1. Brushing your teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. Use a softbristled toothbrush.

2. Flossing daily to remove plaque and food debris from between the teeth and under the gums

When is the best time to visit the dentist?

Regular dental cleanings and check-ups can be done safely at any time during your pregnancy.  Be sure to tell your dentist or dental hygienist that you are pregnant.  Any pain, swelling or infection in your mouth should be treated immediately, because this can affect your health and your baby’s health.

Are x-rays safe?

If you are pregnant, you can postpone dental x-rays until after your baby is born, to reduce radiation exposure.  If x-rays are needed, the dental office will provide a leaded apron to shield you.

What are some common dental problems during pregnancy?

Morning sickness

Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can be caused by hormonal changes, tension and/or fatigue.  This feeling usually occurs during the eighth to twelfth week of pregnancy.

Frequent vomiting can leave stomach acids in your mouth.  Be sure to brush thoroughly.  If this acid is not cleared away quickly, it can damage the surfaces of your teeth and cause tooth decay.  A few helpful suggestions are:

1. try eating unsalted crackers or dry toast as a snack before getting out of bed in the morning.  It may also help if you get out of bed slowly

2. rinse your mouth with water, or use a fluoride mouth rinse after vomiting, to freshen your mouth and protect your teeth from the damaging action of stomach acids

3. notify your doctor if vomiting persists or if you become concerned.

Tender or bleeding gums

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the gums. The gums may become swollen and inflamed in response to bacteria along the gum line. This is called pregnancy gingivitis. It usually appears during the third to ninth month of pregnancy. To prevent pregnancy gingivitis, it is important to floss daily and brush your teeth at least twice a day. Be sure to gently brush along the gum line.