How to Maintain Oral Health During Pregnancy

If you've recently found out you're pregnant or plan to conceive soon, many questions are likely going through your mind. However, are you aware that your oral condition can change during those nine months?

At Pure Smiles, we want to provide information and tips for various oral health issues and circumstances that can lead to changes in your mouth’s condition. Let's look at the best ways to maintain a high standard of oral health during pregnancy.

How Oral Health Changes During Pregnancy

The saying that you'll be “eating for two” during pregnancy isn't too far from the truth; pregnancy means you need to consume more calories than you did before for the healthy growth of your offspring. However, an increased number of calories might mean you're consuming more sugar and acidic food, possibly risking the state of your teeth.

The bacteria accumulated in your mouth because of greater food and drink consumption can result in your unborn child being exposed to that bacteria, making it imperative that you care for your teeth as much as possible during this time. Gingivitis is more common than you might think among pregnant women, and hormonal changes can affect this.

Highly acidic food and excessive sugar can erode the protective layer on our teeth called enamel. If enamel wears away, your teeth become much more sensitive, and conditions like tooth decay and cavities are more likely. The consequences of these oral conditions can lead to discomfort, pain, and tooth loss if it isn't addressed early.

Vomiting, also known as ‘morning sickness’, happens to many women during pregnancy; the stomach acid your body produces can have adverse outcomes for your teeth and gums.

How to Care for Teeth During Pregnancy

Brushing twice a day, flossing, and using an alcohol-free mouthwash are the routine ways everybody should care for their teeth and gums, including pregnant people. However, do your utmost not to forget or skip these tasks during pregnancy.

You will need to make dietary changes if you are pregnant for your sake and that of your child. Specific dairy, cured meats, caffeine, alcohol, and excessive amounts of fish should be avoided during pregnancy to keep your body, your child’s health, and your mouth in its best condition.

Pregnant people should book dental appointments more often than those who are not pregnant; generally, a visit every three to six months is advised so the changes you're experiencing can be monitored and oral conditions can be reviewed. Tell your dentist that you are pregnant so all considerations can be made to accommodate you.

Contact the Pure Smiles team if you're ready for a pre-pregnancy dental consultation or have already conceived.