Pregnancy and Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Working as a Dental Hygienist at Smile Artistry I often get asked the question, ‘How does pregnancy affect my teeth and gums?’ or ‘I’m pregnant and have noticed my gums bleeding when I clean my teeth?’ During pregnancy, women have an increased risk of developing gum disease.

Approximately 70% of women will show some form of gum disease during pregnancy. This is caused by hormone fluctuations and can make gums more sensitive to plaque bacteria that constantly form on the teeth. Women that already have some signs of gum disease can find that pregnancy will make it worse. They will notice bleeding when brushing or flossing, redness and tenderness of the gums and possibly bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.

Another risk during pregnancy is tooth decay. A lot of pregnant women will have a change in their usual dietary habits and may crave sugary foods and drinks. More frequent snacking throughout the day will also increase the risk of developing tooth decay. Many women also suffer from morning sickness which can make the teeth more vulnerable to tooth decay.
So what can women do during pregnancy to protect against gum disease and tooth decay? The most important thing is to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home and visit the dentist and dental hygienist for regular exams and cleans. Brush thoroughly twice a day , taking at least two minutes in the morning and before bed at night. Floss between all teeth daily and always use fluoridated toothpaste. If suffering with morning sickness, always rinse your mouth with water after, or use a fluoridated mouthrinse. Do not brush your teeth immediately after vomiting, wait at least half an hour for the acid to neutralise, otherwise the brushing action combined with acid on the teeth may cause increased enamel wear and sensitivity. To avoid tooth decay during pregnancy it is also very important to watch the frequency of sugary food and drinks consumed throughout the day. Eat a well balanced diet rich in calcium to ensure you and your baby get all the nutrients you need for healthy teeth and gums.