Congratulations! Whether this is your first baby or your fourth, pregnancy is a busy and exciting time, and a dental check-up might be the last thing on your mind. But looking after your mouth during these nine months really matters, for you and for your baby. At Bealby and Jones, we love looking after our mums-to-be, and we want you to feel relaxed, informed and well supported every step of the way.
Why does oral health matter so much in pregnancy?
Pregnancy brings big changes in your hormones, particularly rising levels of oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones increase blood flow to your gums and can change the way your body responds to the bacteria in plaque. The result? Gums that are more sensitive, swollen and prone to bleeding.
This is known as pregnancy gingivitis, and it's very common. You might notice:
- Gums that look red, puffy or tender
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- A bad taste or bad breath that won't shift
The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with good home care and professional support. Left untreated, however, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that can damage the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. Some research has also suggested a possible link between severe gum disease and pregnancy complications such as premature birth, although the evidence is still being studied. Either way, healthy gums are good for your overall wellbeing, and keeping on top of them now is simple, kind to your body and well worth the effort.
Morning sickness and your teeth
If you're struggling with morning sickness, you're certainly not alone. But stomach acid is hard on tooth enamel, and frequent sickness can leave your teeth more vulnerable to erosion and sensitivity. Our top tips:
- Rinse, don't brush straight away. After being sick, rinse your mouth with plain water or a fluoride mouthwash. Brushing immediately can scrub the acid into softened enamel, so wait about an hour.
- Keep it gentle. A small-headed, soft-bristled brush can help if your gag reflex is more sensitive than usual.
- Try a bland-flavoured toothpaste if your usual minty one is setting off nausea.
Cravings, snacking and sugar
Nobody is judging your midnight toast or your sudden love of pickled onions! If you're grazing more often, though, try to keep sugary snacks and drinks to mealtimes where you can, and reach for cheese, nuts, fruit or plain yoghurt in between. Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth daily will help protect you from decay.
Is dental treatment safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Routine check-ups, hygiene appointments and necessary treatment are safe throughout pregnancy, and the second trimester is often the most comfortable time for longer appointments. We'll always make sure you're comfortable: we can adjust the chair position, take breaks whenever you need them, and talk you through everything we're doing. If an X-ray is needed, we only take one when it's genuinely necessary, and we use appropriate protection. Please let us know how far along you are so we can plan your care properly.
What we'd love you to do
- Book a check-up early in your pregnancy, or as soon as you can.
- Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth every day.
- Tell us about any changes, such as bleeding gums, sensitivity or lumps on your gums. Occasionally pregnancy causes a harmless growth on the gums, which we can easily check and advise on.
- Don't skip appointments after your baby arrives.
A friendly welcome, always
Many people feel a little nervous about the dentist, and pregnancy can add extra worries. Please don't hesitate to ask us anything. There are no silly questions, and we'll never rush you. Our aim is for every mum-to-be to leave our practice feeling reassured, cared for and confident about her smile.
If you're expecting and haven't had a check-up recently, get in touch with the Bealby and Jones team today. We'd love to help you look after your teeth and gums, so you can focus on the exciting months ahead.
This article is for general information and isn't a substitute for personal dental or medical advice. If you have concerns about your oral health, please speak to your dentist or midwife.
Written by
Ciara Dodd
Clinic admin — GDC -