When most people think about oral health, they focus on their teeth and gums—but the health of your...
How Pregnancy Impacts Oral Health
Pregnancy brings many changes, and your oral health is no exception. Here are some common effects of pregnancy on your teeth and gums:
1. Pregnancy Gingivitis
- What It Is: Increased hormones during pregnancy can make your gums more sensitive to plaque, leading to redness, swelling, and bleeding.
- What You Can Do: Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings can help manage gum health.
2. Increased Risk of Tooth Decay
- Why It Happens: Changes in eating habits (like more frequent snacking or cravings) can expose teeth to more sugars. Morning sickness can also expose teeth to stomach acid, weakening enamel.
- What You Can Do: Rinse with water after snacking or vomiting and use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
3. Pregnancy Tumours
- What They Are: Small, benign growths on the gums caused by inflammation. These typically go away after childbirth but may require monitoring.
Safe Dental Treatments During Pregnancy
Emma, a 32-year-old expectant mother, visited us with concerns about keeping her teeth and gums healthy during pregnancy. She wanted to know what treatments were safe and how to stay on top of her oral care routine.
Here’s what we shared with her:
What’s Safe During Pregnancy
- Checkups and Cleanings: Routine dental visits are not just safe—they’re encouraged. Regular cleanings can help manage pregnancy gingivitis and keep plaque at bay.
- X-Rays: Dental X-rays are safe with proper shielding, especially if needed for diagnosing an issue. At Maroubra Dental Clinic, we use modern digital X-rays that emit minimal radiation.
- Emergency Treatments: If you’re experiencing pain or infection, treatments like fillings or root canal treatment can be safely performed to protect your health and your baby’s.
What to Postpone
- Elective treatments like teeth whitening or extensive cosmetic procedures are best postponed until after delivery.
Maintaining Healthy Teeth and Gums During Pregnancy
Emma’s visit included a gentle cleaning and some personalised advice on how to maintain her oral health throughout her pregnancy. Here are the tips we recommend to all our expectant mums:
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Brush and Floss Twice Daily
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss gently to remove plaque between teeth and along the gumline.
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Eat a Balanced Diet
- Focus on foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus to support your baby’s developing teeth.
- Limit sugary snacks and beverages to reduce the risk of decay.
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Stay Hydrated
- Drinking water not only keeps you hydrated but also helps rinse away food particles and bacteria.
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Don’t Skip Dental Visits
- Regular checkups allow us to monitor your oral health and address any issues early.
Why Choose Maroubra Dental Clinic During Pregnancy?
At Maroubra Dental Clinic, we understand the unique needs of our pregnant patients. Here’s what makes our care special:
- A Gentle Approach: We prioritise your comfort and ensure that all treatments are safe for you and your baby.
- Personalised Advice: From managing morning sickness effects to choosing the best oral care products, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
- Modern Technology: Our advanced equipment ensures accurate diagnoses with minimal stress.
Emma’s Experience: Peace of Mind for Mum and Baby
After her cleaning and checkup, Emma felt reassured:
"I was nervous about visiting the dentist while pregnant, but the team made me feel so comfortable. I now have a plan to keep my gums healthy and protect my baby’s future smile."
Schedule Your Pregnancy Dental Care Checkup
Your oral health is an important part of your overall wellbeing, especially during pregnancy. By staying proactive, you’re protecting your smile and your baby’s development.
Schedule your pregnancy dental care checkup today and let us support you through this special time with gentle, caring treatment.
