During pregnancy, there are changes within your body, emotions and mouth. Hormones cause your gums to be more irritated by plaque and you may experience red, swollen, bleeding and tender gums. This is known as pregnancy gingivitis and symptoms may appear between the second and eight month of pregnancy. It usually subsides after the baby is born, however, if it becomes severe and left untreated, it may progress to periodontitis. This can affect the underlying bone structure and periodontal ligaments that supports the teeth within their sockets.
Another occurance during pregnancy, due to hormonal changes is a pyogenic granuloma. It is a large red lump seen mostly on the gums around the anterior teeth. It is noncancerous and removal is rarely necessary unless it causes severe pain, bleeding and interferes with eating.
Unfortunately, morning sickness is something most pregnant women experience, therefore; vomiting increases the risk of tooth erosion due to exposure of acids in the mouth. If vomiting is a problem and concern, rinse your mouth with water, diluted mouth rinse or half a teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in water. Do not brush your teeth for at least 30 minutes after vomiting as the acids softens enamel which can be brushed away with your toothbrush. Also avoid any fatty or spicy food that may induce vomiting and rather follow a well-balanced diet with a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grain, high fibre food, milk, nuts, seeds, fish and eggs, including supplements that assists in fetal development.
Some advise to incorporate into your daily oral health care when you are pregnant:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste
- Floss or use an interdental brush for interdental cleaning
- Limit sugar containing food and drinks. Dental caries or tooth decay may result from consuming more carbohydrates and sugar containing food and drinks than usual. Drink plenty of fluoridated water to keep your own teeth strong and it is beneficial for dental caries prevention
- Make sure you get enough sleep and exercise
- It is safe to have dental visits and treatment during your pregnancy
Resources
ADA: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/pregnancy-slideshow
Darby and Walsh Dental Hygiene Theory and Practice. 2020.