Looking After Your Oral Health During Pregnancy

With all the exciting changes pregnancy brings, pregnancy oral care is one that can fall to the bottom of the list. Looking after your teeth and gums whilst pregnant is an important part of your pregnancy health regime.

Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase the risks of developing gum disease, otherwise known as pregnancy gingivitis. Gum disease is not only unpleasant for mum but can harm your unborn baby. Research has also shown a link between premature birth and periodontal disease, a chronic gum infection. Statistics suggest 18 out of every 100 premature births are triggered by periodontal disease. It can result in premature babies with eyesight, hearing issues and in the worst cases, cerebral palsy.

Luckily, maintaining good oral hygiene will ensure you have healthy gums and teeth during pregnancy.

Pregnancy Oral Care Tips

• Make an appointment

  If possible, make a dental appointment prior to falling pregnant. This way, you can undergo any work prior to your pregnancy. Your teeth can be professionally cleaned, gum tissue carefully examined, and any oral health problems can be treated in advance. That way, your body can concentrate on growing a beautiful healthy baby.

• Tell your dentist if you suspect you could be pregnant

  Most routine dental care can be performed during pregnancy. However, you may need to postpone some elective or major dental procedures until after delivery. This may cause undue, prolonged discomfort throughout your pregnancy.

• Rinse after experiencing morning sickness

  For those mums who suffer from morning sickness, it is important to rinse after every episode to avoid dental erosion. The gastric reflux that travels up from your stomach can wear away at the enamel that covers and protects your teeth. Brushing straight after morning sickness can contribute to tooth loss. Therefore, we recommend rinsing your mouth thoroughly as opposed to brushing. It may also help to change your toothpaste to an unflavoured brand.