Risks To Your Oral Health During Pregnancy

Gingivitis - Inflamed Gums During Pregnancy

At Curaprox, we know looking after your oral health is more difficult during pregnancy. Hormonal changes and cravings mean your teeth are more susceptible to damage and the key to preventing these problems is understanding them before they occur. 

SORE GUMS DURING PREGNANCY

Does pregnancy affect dental health?

Changes in your hormones can make you more susceptible to a build-up of plaque on your teeth.

This can lead to sore and swollen gums, which may bleed more easily which could mean you have gingivitis – an early stage of gum disease. Gingivitis, if left untreated can lead to periodontitis – when the tissues that hold in place and support the teeth become inflamed. When not treated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.

How can I take care of my gums during pregnancy?

Fortunately a consistent, high-quality daily oral health routine can help you to deal with or prevent sore gums, gingivitis and the risk of periodontitis.

As always, looking after your teeth and gums benefits your whole body – including your arteries, heart and brain.

TOOTH DECAY AND PREGNANCY

Because you’re more vulnerable to dental plaque, you’re also at greater risk of tooth decay – when plaque turns sugars into enamel-attacking acid.

How to treat tooth decay during pregnancy

If you have any concerns about tooth decay, please ask your dentist. But the best way to ward off tooth decay is to be consistent with a great oral health routine.

PREGNANCY CRAVINGS & ORAL HEALTH

For many pregnant women, cravings start in the first trimester – as early as five weeks into pregnancy – and get stronger in the second trimester.

If you crave acidic or sweet food or drink you need to take special care. The acidity of things like cola, orange juice, fruit and sugary sweets attack the structure of tooth enamel.

Don’t brush straight away

If possible, try not to eat or drink too many of these treats! When you do, take a sip of water straight afterwards.

And make sure you wait at least half an hour before brushing – your teeth enamel becomes weaker and more at risk of damage straight after consuming acidic food and drink.

MORNING SICKNESS & YOUR TEETH

Similarly, with the nausea and vomiting common in pregnancy – often known as morning sickness – the acid in your vomit can damage your teeth enamel.

Rinse your mouth with water after being sick and wait at least half an hour before brushing.

DENTAL CARE WHILE PREGNANT

We highly recommend seeing your dentist at least once during your pregnancy as your oral health needs are greater when you’re pregnant.

Do I need to tell my dentist I’m pregnant?

We would advise telling your dentist you’re pregnant as this may affect your dental care and procedures available to you.

Dental fillings during pregnancy

For example, some guidelines suggest removing or replacing amalgam fillings should be delayed until after you’ve had your baby and dental X-rays should usually be avoided.

If you have any concerns at all about your teeth and gums, don’t hesitate to go and see a dental professional.

If you have any concerns, your dentist will be able to advise you on all you need to know about taking care of your oral health during pregnancy. But now you know the risks, it’s time to discover the key to prevention. Check out our recommendations for the best oral care routine during pregnancy: