You’re pregnant and wondering what you should be doing to keep your teeth healthy? It’s important to remember that pregnancy can cause your body to react in ways that affect your teeth.

While your gums are usually stronger during pregnancy, you may find that they become tender. That’s because pregnancy hormones relax your gum tissue.

Pregnancy can also lead to changes in your digestive system, including your saliva which can cause your teeth to have a higher risk of decay. Your diet might also change, leading to increased consumption of sugary and acidic foods.

It’s really important to keep up good oral hygiene while you’re pregnant. Flossing and brushing your teeth twice a day is essential. You can also consider using a fluoride toothpaste, or using a mouth rinse.

As always, speak to your dentist if you have any questions.

Symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis

Gingivitis is an inflammation of your gums and is common during pregnancy. It’s usually harmless but can cause discomfort. If your gums become red, swollen or bleed during pregnancy, contact your dentist immediately.

If you’re worried about pregnancy gingivitis, see your dentist as soon as you can. Gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease which is more serious and could lead to tooth loss.

Causes of pregnancy gingivitis

During pregnancy, your body produces higher levels of the hormone progesterone. This makes you more susceptible to infections and makes you more prone to gum disease.

Your gums might also be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures which can make them feel tender. This is common during pregnancy and lasts for around two weeks after giving birth.

Mood swings and hormonal changes during pregnancy can also make your mouth dry.

As your hormones fluctuate during pregnancy, your immune system can become weak. This means you’re more likely to pick up bacteria that can cause gum disease.

Your pregnancy diet may change, too. You might find it easier to consume food that’s high in sugar. You could also eat foods that are acidic which can increase the risk of tooth decay.

Gums and your pregnancy

It’s really important to keep up good oral hygiene while you’re pregnant. Flossing and brushing your teeth twice a day is essential. You can also consider using a fluoride toothpaste, or using a mouth rinse.

As always, speak to your dentist if you have any questions.

How can I protect my teeth during pregnancy?

Keeping up good oral hygiene is really important during pregnancy. You’ll want to floss and brush your teeth twice a day. You can also consider using a fluoride toothpaste, or using a mouth rinse.

If you’re worried about pregnancy gingivitis, see your dentist as soon as you can. Gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease which is more serious and could lead to tooth loss.

Are you pregnant and worried about your baby’s teeth? There are lots of things to consider when you’re having a child.

From teeth to gums, to the whole body, pregnancy can cause changes to your teeth. Your teeth might seem to change shape, and your gums can become red and swollen.

There are a few things you can do to keep your baby’s teeth healthy. Brush and floss regularly, and try to avoid sugary and acidic foods. If you’re worried about tooth decay, ask your dentist about a fluoride toothpaste.

Some dental conditions

During pregnancy you might experience some dental problems. If you have toothache or are worried about toothache, see your dentist.

There are some dental conditions that are common in pregnant women. If you have a gum abscess, tooth pain or bleeding gums, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible.

Some of these dental conditions are also associated with other medical conditions. For example, if you’re pregnant with twins, your chances of having diabetes go up.

The chances of developing an allergy to certain foods, such as peanuts, are also increased. If you’re pregnant and you’re concerned about your child’s allergy to certain foods, talk to your doctor.

If you’re pregnant and you’re worried about the way your teeth look, talk to our dentist.