Dental Care During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a magical time filled with excitement and anticipation as you prepare to welcome your baby. However, it can also bring about unexpected changes to your body, including your oral health. For instance, you might be surprised to discover that your gums bleed more easily due to hormonal changes, or that indulging in cravings for sweet treats can take a toll on your teeth. These changes are common but shouldn’t be overlooked.

While your focus is naturally on keeping your baby healthy, it’s equally important to prioritise your own well-being, including your pregnancy dental care health. Healthy gums and teeth play a crucial role in your overall health, and taking care of them during pregnancy can prevent potential issues, both for you and your baby. To help you navigate these changes, here’s how you can ensure your oral health is maintained throughout pregnancy

Starting with basics – tips for tooth brushing

Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, can also be affected by a range of factors, including genetics. Here are some ways genetic factors can influence risk and development of cavities:

Brush Smart, Not Hard
During pregnancy, your gums can become more sensitive due to hormonal changes, making them prone to bleeding and irritation. This is why it’s essential to brush gently rather than aggressively. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and focus on thorough but gentle cleaning to avoid aggravating your gums. Pair this with fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your enamel and protect against cavities, especially if you’ve been indulging in those pregnancy cravings for sweets. Brushing smartly helps maintain your oral health without causing unnecessary discomfort.

Morning sickness
Experienced commonly by expectant Mums – can be acidic for your teeth, leading to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities. If you brush your teeth directly after vomiting, this can potentially wear away your tooth enamel. If possible, rinse your mouth with water directly after being sick and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.

Morning sickness
Experienced commonly by expectant Mums – can be acidic for your teeth, leading to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities. If you brush your teeth directly after vomiting, this can potentially wear away your tooth enamel. If possible, rinse your mouth with water directly after being sick and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.

In fact, brush your teeth, gums and tongue when you can – preferably after breakfast and before going to bed. Use a soft toothbrush with a pea amount of fluoride toothpaste. Use dental floss or interdental brushes each day to clean in between your teeth. If brushing and flossing prove difficult while you’re feeling nauseous, speak to your dentist for alternative ways to make brushing more manageable.

DON’T SKIP your dental check ups!
One of the most effective ways to maintain effective oral health and look after your pregnancy dental care is to schedule regular dental visits. Routine check-ups will assist in identifying potential issues such as decay or gum inflammation early. When planning to become pregnant, it’s advisable to attend a dental check-up ahead of time to a) ensure you’re starting with an approved tick of oral health and b) to discuss any elective treatments such as teeth whitening, which may need to be postponed until after pregnancy.

Food for thought (and your teeth)
Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet during pregnancy. Vitamin D, Calcium, and phosphorus (found in foods such as yogurt, cheese and lentils) are especially important for maintaining strong teeth and bones, plus they’re essential for the healthy development of your baby, too!

Try to eat healthy snacks that look after your teeth, such as cheese and low-fat yogurt (calcium-rich foods like dairy regulate the acidity caused by sweeter ingredients in sauces and desserts, for example). Reduce foods that are high in added sugars, fats and salt, especially in between meals. If you are craving something sweet, try fresh fruit or a small piece of dark chocolate. Rinse your mouth with water afterwards and brush your teeth regularly to reduce the risk of decay.

Hydration is key!
Drink lots of water, preferably fluoridated tap water which protects your teeth from dental decay. Staying hydrated helps prevent dry mouth: a condition common during pregnancy, which can lead to bad breath, cavities, and infections.

Avoid sugary drinks such as juice, sports drinks, soft drinks, or energy drinks as these tend to increase the risk of dental decay. Saliva is essential for washing away food particles and fighting off bacteria, therefore drinking lots of water in between meals and snacks will assist in keeping tooth decay at bay.

Keep your gums healthy
Pregnancy gingivitis is a common condition that can cause red, swollen and bleeding gums. During pregnancy, your fluctuating hormone levels – especially estrogen and progesterone – can increase the risk of gum inflammation. To combat this, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush gently, and be diligent when flossing. You could also consider using a mouthwash (ask us at The Dental Room, your dentist in Balwyn for recommendations) to help reduce bacteria and keep gum inflammation under control. By looking after your gum health during pregnancy, you can help prevent the progression of gingivitis into a more severe form, such as periodontitis.

Avoid unnecessary dental treatments
While most dental treatments are safe during pregnancy, it’s generally best to avoid any non-essential procedures, especially during the first trimester, when your baby’s development is most critical. Teeth whitening, elective cosmetic treatments or unnecessary X-rays should typically be postponed. Having said this, if you experience a dental emergency or have a serious dental issue such as a painful infection or cavity, seeking treatment is essential. Left untreated, these issues can lead to complications for both yourself and your baby. If an x-ray is necessary, your dentist will use protective measures to minimise exposure to your abdomen, and the amount of radiation used in dental X-rays is generally very low.

After bub arrives
Once your baby arrives, while times will be a bit crazy, don’t forget to prioritise your health. It’s just as important that you look after your dental care postpartum, especially if you experience any pregnancy-related gum issues or dental concerns. Book a follow-up appointment with your dentist to check on your gum health and address any issues that may have developed during the pregnancy. If you’re breastfeeding, continue to focus on calcium-rich foods and good hydration, as these can also support both your dental health and your milk supply.

Dental care during pregnancy is crucial for your overall well-being as well as your baby’s development. By following these tips and working closely with your dentist, you can manage the unique oral health challenges of pregnancy and keep your smile bright and healthy.

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