Can Being Pregnant Harm Your Teeth?

Pregnancy. Some women love it. Some women hate it. Regardless, being pregnant can impact teeth and gums. As such, when women are pregnant, they should be taking extra care of their oral health to ensure there are no complications.

Today on the Defacto Dentists blog, we look at the effects of being pregnant on our oral health.

Morning Sickness.

This is quite an obvious one. Morning sickness affects more than half of all woman during some stage of pregnancy. Being sick and feeling nauseous isn’t fun. It can make you lose your appetite, disturb your sleep, and it can also harm your teeth.

Vomit is extremely acidic and when in contact with your teeth, it can erode the tooth’s enamel. It’s impossible to avoid, and can be particularly damaging to the woman suffering from intense bouts of pregnancy sickness, or HG otherwise known as Hyperemesis Gravidarium. HG can cause weight loss and dehydration as a result of constant nausea and vomiting. Be sure to rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash to counteract any erosion.

Pregnancy Gingivitis.

During all stages of pregnancy, your teeth and gums need some extra attention. Maintaining good oral health habits, including brushing twice daily, flossing at least once every day, eating healthily and visiting the dentist are vital. By doing so, you will reduce the likelihood of dental issues that come with being pregnant.

Gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease is common during pregnancy, due to altered hormone levels. The changes in hormone levels exaggerate the way gums react to the irritants in plaque. Having said that, it’s still plaque — not hormones — that is the major cause of gum disease.

Dehydration.

More specifically towards the end of pregnancy, women can become dehydrated, especially during the summer months! Staying hydrated is important for the baby, but also for your teeth and gums! Dehydration can cause bad breath and can also cause cavities to form. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day! Dehydration can also bring on further nausea and vomiting so it is so important to keep hydrated.

Visiting the dentist while pregnant.

It is essential that you visit the dentist throughout your pregnancy. Let your dentist know that you are pregnant when you call to make an appointment. Ideally, your appointment should take place between the 4^th and 6^th months of your pregnancy. This is because because the first three months of pregnancy are thought to be of greatest importance in your child’s development. During the last trimester, stresses associated with dental visits can increase the incidence of prenatal complications.

Typically, X-rays, dental anesthetics, pain medications and antibiotics (especially tetracycline) are not prescribed during the first trimester, unless it’s absolutely necessary. During the last three months of pregnancy, sitting for long periods of time in the dental chair can become uncomfortable.

Dental Treatment During Pregnancy.

If you’re worried about receiving dental treatment during pregnancy, speak to your dentist. They will be happy to talk you through the process and any treatment you require.

If you need to register with a dentist, you can do so on our website www.defactodentists.com, we have thousands of UK dentists who are ready and waiting to treat you. All it takes is a simple location search!

Don’t let your oral health suffer during pregnancy!