It’s no secret. Pregnancy changes a lot about your routine, your body and even your sleep…but did you know it can affect your oral health, too?
Here at Sarum Dental in Salisbury, we often see mums-to-be who are surprised by how much their pregnancy affected their teeth and gums, with increased sensitivity, bleeding whilst brushing and even changes in eating habits (yep, cravings have a hand in this, too!).
The important thing to remember is that with the right support and preventative care from our friendly team, most pregnancy-related dental issues are completely manageable. Keep reading to find out more!
Why Does Pregnancy Affect Your Teeth & Gums?
It all comes down to hormones. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase blood flow to the gums, which makes them more susceptible to inflammation and sensitivity.
If you’re currently expecting, you might have noticed:
- Bleeding whilst brushing
- Swollen or tender gums
- Increased sensitivity
- Changes in taste
- A greater buildup of plaque
Cravings and nausea can also affect your oral health. Frequent sugary snacks and acid exposure from morning sickness can increase the risk of enamel wear and even tooth decay. Like you don’t have enough to think about!
Gingivitis in Pregnancy Is Far More Common Than You’d Think!
One of the most common conditions we see in our pregnant patients is gingivitis. This condition creates irritation and inflammation of the gums, which is caused by hormonal changes and/or plaque buildup.
This might sound worrying, but actually it’s very common and will often improve with:
- Regular dental hygiene appointments
- Thorough brushing and flossing
- Routine dental checkups
If you get on top of it early, pregnancy-related gingivitis is usually easy to control.
Looking After Your Smile Whilst Pregnant
So, what else can you do to keep your smile in top condition whilst you’re expecting? Our Salisbury-based dentists recommend the following:
- Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
- Try to rinse with water, if you can, following sickness
- Consume sugary snacks and drinks in moderation
- Attend regular dental and hygiene appointments
- Don’t ignore bleeding gums or discomfort
One Final Tip For Baby!
You might be surprised to learn that we recommend children visit the dentist by their first birthday OR when their first tooth appears. These early visits help:
- Get your child used to the dental practice
- Monitor how their teeth are developing
- Offer advice on brushing and dummy use
- Build positive habits from the very start
The caring team at Sarum Dental have been keeping families smiling across Salisbury for years. Put your trust in our expertise!