If you’ve noticed some changes to your gums and teeth during your pregnancy, you’re not alone. It can be painful to brush your teeth now, and it may even cause some bleeding or nausea. It is important to know what is normal for this time in your life. This will allow you to be more confident about dealing with the changes in your mouth (such as gum sensitiveness) that may occur during pregnancy. Here’s what happens in your mouth when you’re expecting, and what you can do to keep your teeth healthy.
What does pregnancy mean for your teeth?
“The mouth becomes very sensitive during pregnancy,” says dentist Dr. Izbel Aksit, D.D.S. This is due to an increased amount of acid in the bloodstream and saliva that can lead to tooth decay. Aksit adds, “Pregnant women may experience swelling and redness in their teeth and gums. The gums may become sensitive and bleed easily. The reason for these changes is that secretion of estrogen and progesterone hormones increases during pregnancy.”
Periodontitis is also a result of hormonal changes. This can lead to inflammation of the tissues around the teeth and shrinkage of the gums. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between 60-75% and 60% of pregnant women experience gingivitis. This is the first stage of periodontal diseases.
While hormonal changes are one thing, emotional stress can also impact dental health. This increases stomach acids, which can lead to erosion of teeth enamel. Take a deep, relaxing breath and try to relax as much as possible.
Some pregnancy-related oral issues can increase the chance of having longer-lasting oral health issues, but here’s how the experts say you can address and prevent them.
How to care for your baby’s teeth during pregnancy
Get more calcium
“Since women are keener to experience oral issues during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, calcium intake becomes more significant for them. Women who are pregnant can eat calcium-rich foods such as yogurt, milk, fish, and green leafy veggies. They can also take calcium-containing vitamins,” says Askit.
She adds that it’s important to consult your doctor on how much calcium intake you should have based on your individual needs.
Change your toothpaste
A toothpaste that is specifically designed to treat specific issues with your teeth can be helpful. “Switch to a toothpaste such as Sensodyne and do salt water rinses,” advises dentist Dr. Yenile Pinto, D.D.S. This is a helpful solution if you’re experiencing gum issues. “Sensodyne needs to be used for at least two weeks before you attain the full benefit. Saltwater rinses can help with inflammation and should be 25% salt to 75% water and gargle for 30 seconds.”
Take sugar-free gum with you
“A good tip is to chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candy after meals so you can help prevent acid from building up in your mouth,” says Dr. Katrina Zhao, D.D.S, principal dentist at Midas Dental.
Daily oral health care practices should be maintained
You should make flossing and brushing a regular part of your daily life.
“Remember that taking care of you is taking care of baby. If you are thinking of getting pregnant, I highly recommend making an appointment with your dentist and completing any needed treatment now before the pregnancy,” says Pinto. You can concentrate on your pregnancy’s oral health by getting all necessary procedures out of the equation.
Don’t brush your teeth immediately after vomiting
It might feel intuitive to brush your teeth immediately after a bout of morning sickness, but it’s actually better to wait. “If you’re like me and suffer with morning sickness and acid reflux during pregnancy, you should avoid brushing right after vomiting since the brushing action along with the acids in your mouth can cause the enamel of your teeth to wear down. Instead, rinse with water for 20 minutes and then brush. I also recommend using a good mouth rinse that helps balance your oral PH to neutralize any acids,” advises Pinto.
Preventing dental discomfort can be done by maintaining good oral hygiene habits, increasing calcium intake, and using a toothpaste that is sensitive.
Experts:
Dr. Izbel Aksit, D.D.S., dentist
Dr. Katrina Zhao, D.D.S., principal dentist at Midas Dental
Dr. Yenile Y. Y. Pinto D.D.S., dentist, and owner of Deering Dental
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