It’s normal to see changes in your smile during pregnancy.
During pregnancy it is normal to experience changes in your body. Did you know that it’s also normal to see changes in your smile?
Nausea and Vomiting
Morning sickness can result in increased acid exposure to your teeth. Instead of brushing your teeth right after a period of vomiting, rinse your mouth out with water. This prevents acids from being scrubbed across other tooth surfaces. Add a fluoride rinse at least once a day to keep enamel strong.
Bleeding Gums
Your hormones can cause gingival inflammation and bleeding, even if you haven’t ever had problems before. Be sure to floss daily and get regular cleanings to prevent bacterial-induced gum disease.
Pregnancy Tumors
In few circumstances, you may develop growths on your gum tissues called “pregnancy tumors.” These typically go away as soon as the baby is born. Just be sure to have your dentist check the area to make sure it is not an abscess.
Tooth Decay
Some women claim to see an increase in tooth decay when they are pregnant. Mothers can pass decay bacteria to their children, so treating it early is important. Mothers who chew gum with Xylitol during their pregnancies report having children with fewer cavities and stronger teeth.
Your Oral Health Impacts Your Baby
If you have gum disease, it could be dangerous to your baby’s health. Pregnant women with gum disease can:
- Experience pre-term labor
- Have higher rates of low birth weight infants
- Pass bacteria through the bloodstream to their baby
Eliminating oral infections will help improve your chances of carrying to full term.
Continue to visit us for regular oral care through your pregnancy. If treatment is needed, we will discuss whether it needs to be completed immediately or if it should wait until after your delivery. We’re happy to answer any questions about your care and how it is impacted by pregnancy. Schedule your oral health visits every 6 months!
