The Importance of Dental Care During Pregnancy

Hello everyone! Thank you and welcome back to another blog from the True Smiles Dental Team where this time, we’ll be discussing why it’s important to look after your teeth and gums while pregnant, and tips for you to share with any expecting mothers. We understand that for a lot of women, going through pregnancy is a very tough period with many lifestyle changes. You might be waking up with morning sickness, diagnosed with gestational diabetes, and having frequent mood swings – we wouldn’t want you to be dealing with any dental issues either.  

So, let’s start with the basics. Just like normal, we recommend flossing or using pixster brushes before brushing your teeth, and to continue brushing your teeth twice daily with a fluoridated toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. We highly recommend still coming in for your routinely 6 months check-up and clean, just so we can monitor any changes in your teeth and gums, and to let you know whether you would need more frequent appointments to monitor and maintain your oral health. We try not to take any x-rays while pregnant unless necessary, so after giving birth, come back when you’re ready for a full check-up.   

Morning Sickness 

During the first trimester of pregnancy, many women who experience morning sickness may also have acid reflux, nausea and vomiting. We recommend that if this is a common occurrence, have a bucket with a cloud of tissues ready at your side – we wouldn’t want you to chip your teeth on the toilet rim when you start vomiting unexpectedly. We’d also encourage you to rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water, try and get rid of any residual acid or food out of your mouth, and DO NOT brush your teeth. The acidity in your mouth may still be present and brushing your teeth after vomiting can cause the enamel to wear away, leading to acid eroded teeth. Over time, acid erosion can cause your teeth to become thinner, more brittle and fragile – leading to higher chances of tooth fracture and breakage. Instead, we recommend that you wait at least an hour after vomiting to brush your teeth and, to drink more water.  

Changes in your Mouth – What to Expect  

While pregnant, many women report their gums feeling weaker, sensitive, sore and easily irritated. Some women may experience pregnancy-induced gingivitis during the second trimester and onwards, an inflammation of the gums resulting in more swollen, inflamed, and prone to bleeding gums. If left unmonitored and uncared for, it may progress to periodontitis – gum disease, or for women already diagnosed with periodontitis, it may exacerbate further and result in further breakdown of supporting bone and gums around affected teeth. Over time, this can lead to generalised recession, sensitivity and possible tooth loss. So, don’t forget, lightly massage your gums while brushing your teeth, and try to floss every night. 

During the second trimester, small red and purple lumps may appear, usually in between teeth, that are non-cancerous pregnancy tumours. This is perfectly normal to expect due to fluctuating hormone levels and will usually resolve after giving birth. If you’re concerned about any lesions, let your dental professional know so we can monitor it, if the lesions are still present after giving birth, we’ll be sure to provide you with the correct pathways if we think it’s a lesion of concern. It’s perfectly normal to expect some changes in your mouth while pregnant, so try and visit us every 6 months so we can keep your mouth and teeth healthy and bright!  

The Untold Link: How a Mother’s Oral Health Affects Her Child’s Well-Being 

When we think about the health and well being of a mother, we often discuss topics related to their mental well-being, what she’s eating, and how often she might be exercising. But, did you know that a mother’s oral health can play an important role in their child’s oral health?   

• Pregnancy induced gingivitis
• Gums feel tender  
• Periodontitis – may be associated with preterm births and lower weight babies  
• Oral health status of a mother is also closely related to the dental disease burdens on her children  
• Study showed that severe dental decay prevalent In mothers was associated with double the decay prevalence and severity  
• Prevention and maintenance is critical  

Pregnancy Lesions 

• Tumours that form in the mouth only during pregnancy – benign doesn’t cause harm 
• Will disappear after giving birth 
• Otherwise monitor  

Diet  

• Stay off high sugar diet  
• Cut down on sugary drinks  

If you have any concerns or questions, please let us know during the appointment so we can provide you with the best possible treatment.