Pregnancy and Dentistry

Pregnancy and Dentistry

If you are pregnant then your body goes through huge changes. Your eating habits change. You may suffer from dreaded morning sickness. Your hormones are all over the place.

It is common for certain things to change with your mouth and teeth also. Your gums may often bleed if pregnant. This is known as pregnancy gingivitis. It is important to continue to brush and floss regularly and to visit your dentist and hygienist regularly.

If you are suffering from morning sickness and have reflux or vomiting then your teeth will have a huge acid attack. Gastric acid is extremely harmful to teeth. If you do vomit then its very important that you do not brush your teeth immediately afterwards as this is only working the acid into the teeth. Ideally rinse your mouth thoroughly with a fluoride mouthwash or failing that just water. You can then brush your teeth approximately 30 minutes after you were sick. Doing this will minimize any potential erosion of your teeth.

Cravings for certain foods are often common when pregnant. If your cravings are for sweet foods or drinks then try and keep in mind the damage they can do to your teeth and if eaten too frequently then damage may occur.

Visit your dentist regularly whilst pregnant. If you require and treatment then it is usually 100% safe whilst pregnant and have any local anesthetic or xrays is perfectly ok. Remember that xrays are of a very small dosage of radiation and are all aimed at your teeth and not near your abdomen.

Despite all the above it is always imperative that you take the advice from your dentist who will know you and treatment options best.

David Hurst BDS (Lon)