Pregnancy: The Hormonal Rollercoaster

Pregnancy is another stage when hormonal changes can significantly affect dental health. During pregnancy, the body’s hormone levels fluctuate drastically, with elevated levels of progesterone and estrogen that affect the mouth and gums. In addition, change in habits like diet (food aversions and cravings) and morning (anytime) sickness can have effects on the mouth.

Pre-Conception

It’s a good idea to visit your dentist before becoming pregnant. This allows any dental issues to be treated early, helping to prevent problems during pregnancy. In addition, if there are any elective treatments such as cosmetic dentistry and/or tooth whitening, this should be done before becoming pregnant.

During Pregnancy

• Pregnancy Gingivitis: This is one of the most common dental issues during pregnancy. It occurs due to hormonal changes that make the gums more sensitive to plaque and bacteria. The result is swollen, red, and bleeding gums. Pregnancy gingivitis typically resolves after childbirth, but if left untreated, it could lead to more serious gum disease.
• Pregnancy Epulis: These non-cancerous growths, also known as pregnancy granulomas, can develop on the gums due to hormonal changes. They appear as red, swollen lumps and can cause discomfort. While they are typically harmless and usually disappear after giving birth, they should still be monitored by a dentist.
• Sickness: “morning” sickness can also have an effect on the health of the teeth and gums. Being sick will lower the pH of the mouth, which in turn can lead to overgrowth of certain bacteria, and can also essentially start to soften the tooth enamel.
• Changes in diet: food cravings, or just being off certain foods or constantly feeling nauseous can affect your diet when pregnant. If you are switching to more sugary foods and drinks, this can have an effect on your teeth and gums.

What you can do to help

Regular dental care is not only safe during pregnancy, it’s encouraged!

1. Book your dental appointments: routine dentistry is perfectly safe during pregnancy. The best time to visit is during the 2nd trimester as most women tend to feel better at this point, and are comfortable lying in the dental chair.
2. Continue brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
3. Use a soft toothbrush: If your gums are sensitive or bleed, try using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
4. Avoid tobacco products: Smoking can worsen gum disease and harm your baby.
5. Nausea and vomiting: If you are dealing with morning sickness, rinse your mouth with water, sodium bicarb mouth rinse or a fluoridated toothpaste to help neturalise acids. Avoid brushing your teeth immediately after vomiting to avoid enamel damage.
6. Diet: ensure you are eating plenty of calcium rich foods, avoid sugary snacks and acidic drinks and drink plenty of plain water.

Although pregnancy can be the hormone roller-coaster, we’re here to help. Contact us if you need further information or to make an appointment. If you are new to the practice, we start you off with a comprehensive new patient consultation and examination.