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Pregnancy and oral health

Pregnancy is a vulnerable time for your teeth and gums

 With pregnancy comes a whole host of hormonal changes (increased levels of estrogen and  progesterone). These changes in hormones translate to an increase in the plaque that builds up on the teeth. Plaque that is not removed can cause gingivitis and swollen gums that are tender and prone to bleed.


In most women, gingivitis begins to appear around the second trimester. It's important to note that without treatment, preexisting gum conditions generally worsen through the course of pregnancy.


Tips For Pregnant Moms:


  • Before you get pregnant - It’s a good idea to have a dental examination prior to getting pregnant so that any potential problems can be handled well in advance without complication.
  • Check - Ups - Visit your dentist for a checkup in your first and second trimesters to control plaque and maintain good oral health.  It's always a good idea to complete any dental treatment prior to pregnancy. All elective procedures should be completed after the delivery. 
  • X-rays (radiographs) - It’s a good idea to avoid them during pregnancy. Special care will be taken by your health practitioner if it is essential to have x-rays.
  • Decay - Studies have shown that the bacteria responsible for tooth decay is passed from the mother to the child - so eliminating decay in your mouth before you get pregnant may help protect your baby. 
  • Gagging - Women often change their brand of toothpaste during pregnancy, preferring ones with a more subtle, bland taste. Try cleaning your back teeth while breathing slowly; this usually helps to reduce some of the nausea. 
  • Bleeding gums - Pay particular attention to any changes in your gums during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can cause gum sensitivity but it's important to let your dentist check your gums and offer advice on minimizing problems. Gum problems due to pregnancy will resolve after childbirth.  Make sure your gums are healthy before pregnancy to minimize the likelihood of any problems.
  • Cravings - The more frequently you snack (particularly with sweet foods) the more likely you are to get decay.
  • Morning sickness - If you vomit frequently during pregnancy it's important to just rinse your mouth out with water or a mouth rinse afterwards. Brushing your teeth immediately after vomiting can cause your teeth to wear away. Stomach acids soften the tooth thereby making brushing more abrasive.
  • Calcium - Calcium isn't lost from your teeth because your baby is developing. However, additional calcium and phosphorous are needed during pregnancy. Healthy diets containing dairy products, cheese and yogurt are a good source of these essential minerals.
  • Fluoride is found in almost all brands of toothpaste and in foods originating in areas with fluoridated water. Talk to your dentist before you take fluoride supplements.
  • Dental Emergencies -  If you do experience a dental emergency during pregnancy, you can be treated at any time; however, consult your doctor if anesthesia is required or a medication is prescribed to you. Avoid X-rays during pregnancy, unless they are critical to the treatment of the emergency.
  • Tell your dentist or doctor if you suspect you're pregnant. Certain drugs, such as tetracycline, can affect the development of your child's teeth.

We're out participating at educational conventions and seminars throughout the year and we'd like to use this blog as a dental resource for our community of Phoenix, AZ (and beyond). Of course, we welcome you to join the conversation. Suggest topics and ask those burning questions about dentistry that keep you up at night. Please feel free to contact me through the Morse Family Dental  website. Remember, the advice provided here is intended to aid you in understanding some of the treatment options available. It is important to note that before beginning any course of treatment you should always see your dentist. 

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Location: Phoenix, AZ 85085, USA

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