Oral Health During Pregnancy

It is always important to take good care of your teeth and gums but more so during times of hormone changes such as pregnancy or menopause.

Around 50% of all women will experience some dental health problems during pregnancy, the most common being pregnancy gingivitis.

Changing hormone levels can cause teeth to become more susceptible to plaque attack causing gums to become red, swollen and bleed more easily. They may also become very sore as well.

The best way to prevent or alleviate gum problems is to practise good oral health by visiting you dentist and hygienist regularly, brushing with a fluoride toothpaste twice daily, keeping sugary snacks to a minimum and only at meal times, which will help prevent decay or replacing them with a sugar free alternative.

It is necessary to eat a balanced diet during pregnancy to provide you and your baby with all the correct nutrients, what you eat effects the development of you unborn child including their teeth which start to develop between the 3rd and 6th months of pregnancy.

Tooth erosion can also be a problem when suffering with severe morning sickness, it can damage the enamel on the inside surfaces of the front teeth. Leave toothbrushing for at least 1 hour after sickness to allow time for the enamel to harden again.

Be sure to let your dentist know that you are pregnant when attending your appointment and it is always best to try to schedule your visit during the 4th to 6th month of pregnancy. This is because the first 3 months are thought to be of the greatest importance to your child's development and during the last trimester any increased nerves or stress can cause premature labour.