If you’re expecting, you’ll know that pregnancy causes all kinds of changes in your body.
Your oral health is no different — hormonal changes can also have an impact on the health of your teeth and gums.
Here are a few things you may not know about the effect of pregnancy on your oral health …
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Morning sickness can affect your oral health
Many women suffer from morning sickness at some stage in their pregnancy, and the condition can, unfortunately, cause some oral health concerns. This is because gastric acid from the stomach can damage the teeth, causing them to erode over time. If you find yourself badly affected by morning sickness, the best bet is to rinse your mouth out after you have been sick. A little baking soda and water can help to neutralise the acid from your stomach and provide some protection for your enamel.
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You’re at risk of pregnancy gingivitis
Because of the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, many women suffer from pregnancy gingivitis, a condition that causes the gums to swell and bleed. If you notice these symptoms, do come in and see us as it may be helpful to have your teeth cleaned more regularly than usual. It’s also essential that you maintain good oral hygiene habits at home. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush to help prevent the build-up of plaque, and be sure to floss every day.
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You may develop pregnancy tumours
They may sound scary, but pregnancy tumours are actually not malignant. The tumours, which often develop as a result of hormonal changes, form between the teeth. They are generally fairly small and can be removed if they cause any pain and discomfort. In many cases, however, pregnancy tumours simply disappear after childbirth and don’t need to be treated in any way.
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Dental visits remain important throughout pregnancy
If you are expecting a baby, please do let us know so that we can do everything we can to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. In some cases, we may postpone certain procedures until after the birth of your baby. We do, however, recommend that you continue to come in for your regular check-ups. Taking care of your oral health is important for the sake of your overall wellness, as well as that of your baby’s!
If you would like to come in and see us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch to arrange a consultation.
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