Pregnancy brings a range of changes to the body, and oral health is no exception. Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease, tooth sensitivity, and decay. Understanding these changes and knowing how to manage them can help protect both your dental health and your overall wellbeing during pregnancy.
Common Dental Issues During Pregnancy
Gum Disease
Gingivitis is common during pregnancy. Elevated progesterone levels make it harder for the body to fight off the bacteria that cause gum inflammation. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Bleeding when brushing
- Sensitivity or tenderness in the gums
- Redness or swelling
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can weaken the supporting structures around the teeth and, in serious cases, lead to tooth loss.
Tooth Decay
Changes in eating habits and cravings, particularly for sugary foods, can increase the risk of decay. If sweetness is what satisfies your cravings, opting for fresh fruit where possible is a better alternative.
Morning sickness can also expose teeth to stomach acid, which erodes enamel over time. Pregnancy hormones soften the muscle that keeps food in the stomach, making vomiting more common. This repeated acid exposure can damage the tooth surface.
Pregnancy Tumours
Despite the name, pregnancy tumours are benign growths that can appear on the gums. They are typically 0.5 to 2.5cm in size. Some women find them uncomfortable, while others experience no pain at all. They usually resolve after pregnancy.
Can Poor Oral Health Affect the Baby?
Research has found links between periodontal disease during pregnancy and premature deliveries with low birth weight. Approximately 18% of low-weight, premature births have been associated with gum disease and dental problems during pregnancy.
Visiting your dentist during pregnancy to check your oral health is an important step in supporting a healthy pregnancy.
How to Protect Your Teeth During Pregnancy
Dental Care Before Pregnancy
The best foundation for oral health during pregnancy is good habits beforehand. A regular routine should include:
- Brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing once a day
- Eating a balanced diet and limiting sugar intake
- Visiting your dentist every 6 to 12 months
If you are planning for a baby, a dental check-up beforehand can identify any issues worth addressing. Non-urgent treatment during pregnancy can usually be scheduled after the first trimester. For more on this, read our blog on preventive dentistry.
Increase Calcium and Vitamin D
Both calcium and vitamin D support bone and tooth strength during pregnancy. Good dietary sources include:
- Milk, cheese, plain yoghurt
- Nuts such as almonds
- Salmon
- Eggs
- Fortified bread and cereal
If your diet does not provide enough of either, ask your doctor or obstetrician about supplements.
Professional Dental Cleaning
It is safe for pregnant women to have a professional dental clean. Given the higher risk of gingivitis and decay during pregnancy, a clean can help remove plaque and bacteria buildup. Cleaning can be done at any stage of pregnancy, though the second trimester is generally considered the most comfortable time.
Can Pregnancy Cause Sensitive Teeth?
As hormone levels rise during pregnancy, the strength of your tooth enamel can be affected, leading to increased sensitivity. This may make it uncomfortable to consume certain foods or drinks. In most cases, sensitivity improves after birth. If it persists, your dentist can assess and advise.
Can You Lose Teeth During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy itself does not cause tooth loss, but it can contribute to conditions that, if untreated, may lead to it. Hormonal changes increase the risk of gum disease, which is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. With proper dental care, most pregnancy-related dental issues can be managed and treated early.
Your Next Step
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, maintaining your oral health is an important part of your overall care. Contact The Point Dental for more information about pregnancy dental care and our general dentistry services.