05/14/2015 13:24
Some of the most common dental health problems affecting pregnant women include:
- Gum disease. Most likely to occur during the second trimester, the gums will swell and/or bleed. Pregnancy will likely worsen chronic gum disease, which can cause the teeth to fall out. Usually this doesn’t resolve until after the baby is delivered.
- Recommendation: Mid-Wilshire Dental Care recommends that you switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush if you don’t have one, and to have a good oral hygiene routine at home. While most gum problems caused by pregnancy will resolve as the hormones level off after birth, a small fraction of women still have gum disease (likely from their pre-pregnancy oral situation) that needs treatment.
- Vomiting. Morning sickness and repeated reflux and vomiting can damage the tooth enamel, which makes the teeth prone to decay.
- Recommendation: Don’t brush right after vomiting! This will scratch the tooth enamel if your teeth are coated in stomach acids by the brush vigorously cleaning the teeth and cause more harm than good. Simply rinse your mouth with plain tap water and spit, and then use a fluoridated mouthwash. Rinse thoroughly with water. Wait at least an hour after vomiting and then brush your teeth.
- Cravings (especially for sugary foods). While pregnant, it’s common to have unusual cravings and snack regularly. However, if it’s a sweet tooth that’s causing you to eat for two, you could be creating dental problems down the road.
- Recommendation: If you’re eating sweets regularly, then try to choose healthier options such as fresh fruit. If you do eat cookies, cakes or other sweet, rinse your mouth with water or milk afterwards, and brush your teeth after sweets. The lingering sugar on your teeth, if not washed off, makes you more prone to tooth decay.
- Retching. Some pregnant women will retch if they brush their teeth, particularly the molars. However, you can’t simply skip brushing, because they you leave yourself prone to tooth decay.
- Recommendation: Mid-Wilshire Dental Care suggests that pregnant women should use a toothbrush with a small head, such as those made for toddlers, to lessen the chance of retching. You can also brush more slowly, concentrate on your breathing, and close your eyes to prevent the possibility of retching. It may also help to switch to another brand of toothpaste if the taste is unpleasant, as pregnant women often have different taste sensations during pregnancy.
For other great tips on how to keep your mouth healthy during pregnancy, contact us.
