How pregnancy affects oral health

Hormone changes in pregnancy can cause swollen, bleeding, and irritated gums. This is called gingivitis. Your gums may be very sore. Brushing and flossing may cause discomfort. If not treated, gingivitis can lead to a more serious gum disease called periodontitis. Severe periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.

Sometimes during pregnancy a person also has small bright-red growths on their gums that bleed easily. These are often called pregnancy tumors. They are not cancer. They usually go away right after birth. Talk with your dentist or doctor if you have concerns.

Keeping a healthy mouth

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Floss at least once a day.

• If you have frequent morning sickness, rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water after vomiting. This is to stop the stomach acid from attacking teeth. Wait 30 minutes to 1 hour after vomiting before brushing teeth to avoid removing tooth enamel.

• See your dentist for cleanings and checkups more often if needed. This is especially true in your second and third trimesters.

• Ask your dentist or doctor if you should use a special mouth rinse to help prevent gingivitis.

• Tell your dentist or doctor about any changes in your mouth, such as soreness or bleeding.

Safety concerns

Make sure to tell your dentist that you’re pregnant. They can help you stay safe. If you need to have dental X-rays during pregnancy, you will be fully protected by wearing a lead apron over your belly during the X-ray process. The apron helps block radiation from the X-rays.

If you need to take medicines like antibiotics or pain relievers for dental problems, ask your doctor first. They will talk with you about the risks and benefits of taking these during pregnancy.

If you have a high-risk pregnancy, your dentist and your doctor may advise you that some dental treatments should wait until after you give birth.