Pregnancy brings many changes to your body, including changes that can affect your oral health. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can make your gums more sensitive to plaque, increasing your risk of developing gingivitis. However, maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine and visiting your dentist can help protect your gums throughout pregnancy!
Why Does Pregnancy Increase Gingivitis Risk?
Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease that causes gums to become red, swollen and more likely to bleed. During pregnancy, increased levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can increase blood flow to the gums and make them more reactive to plaque and bacteria.
As a result, even a relatively small amount of plaque may cause more noticeable inflammation than it would before pregnancy. Pregnancy gingivitis can develop at any point, although it is often more noticeable during the second trimester and can continue later in pregnancy.
Morning sickness can also create challenges for your oral health. Repeated vomiting exposes your teeth and mouth to stomach acid, while nausea may make brushing difficult for some expectant mothers.
Brush Twice a Day
One of the most important ways to reduce your risk of gingivitis is to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently clean along the gumline.
If toothpaste triggers nausea, try using a smaller amount or brushing at a different time of day. Your dental team can also recommend products that may make maintaining your routine easier.
Clean Between Your Teeth
Brushing alone cannot remove plaque from every area of your mouth. Flossing or using another dentist-recommended interdental cleaner once a day can help clean between your teeth and along the gumline.
If your gums bleed when you floss, do not automatically stop. Bleeding can be a sign of inflammation. Continue cleaning gently and discuss persistent bleeding with your dentist.
Keep Dental Appointments
Regular dental visits are particularly important during pregnancy. Your dentist can check for gingivitis, monitor your gums, and provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar that cannot be eliminated through brushing and flossing alone.
Tell your dental office that you are pregnant so your dental team can take your pregnancy and individual needs into consideration when planning care.
Rinse After Morning Sickness
If you experience morning sickness, avoid brushing your teeth immediately after vomiting as stomach acid can temporarily soften tooth enamel. Instead, rinse your mouth with water. You can also ask your dentist about an appropriate fluoride rinse.
After giving your mouth some time to recover, brush gently as usual.
Taking care of your oral health is an important part of taking care of yourself during pregnancy. With consistent home care and professional dental support, you can help keep your gums healthy while preparing for your baby’s arrival.
About the Author
Dr. Brett Noorda has 25 years of experience to complement his education at the Oregon Health Sciences University School of Dentistry. A Las Vegas native, he began private practice in Henderson in 1996 and has established Dental Excellence as a healthcare staple in the community. Additionally, Dr. Noorda has completed more than 1,400 hours of continuing education throughout his career in all areas of dentistry. For more information on gum disease treatment and other services, visit his practice website or call (702) 456-7403.