Pregnancy is a remarkable journey filled with excitement and anticipation. With so much going on on this life-changing journey, its easy to forget to take care of the little things, like your oral health. I noticed myself that during both my pregnancies, my gums would often bleed upon brushing and flossing and feel much more sensitive and tender. They would randomly inflame, ache and bleed. With the hormone fluctuations in your pregnancy, as well as all the nutrients and calcium being diverted to your baby, your body may begin to lack some nutrients. We stress the importance of actively looking after your smile during this time. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the importance of dental care during pregnancy, common oral health concerns, and practical tips to maintain a healthy smile for both you and your baby.

Why does dental care matter so much during pregnancy?

Oral health is closely linked to overall health, and maintaining good dental hygiene during pregnancy is no exception. Here's why dental care is crucial during this special time:

Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy hormones can affect your oral tissues, making them more susceptible to gum inflammation, known as pregnancy gingivitis.

Morning Sickness: Frequent vomiting during pregnancy can expose your teeth to stomach acid, which can erode tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities.

Gum Health and Pregnancy Outcomes: Some studies suggest a link between gum disease and preterm birth or low birth weight. Maintaining healthy gums may contribute to a healthier pregnancy.

Changing hormonal levels during pregnancy mean that your body will react differently to bacteria on your teeth (plaque). This can lead to swollen and bleeding gums and even to the more serious forms of gum disease such as periodontitis and pregnancy gingivitis. 

How do you take care of your teeth during pregnancy?

Here are our tips on the best actions you can take to ensure that your teeth are looked after while you're pregnant:

Schedule a Dental Checkup: Ideally, schedule a dental checkup before becoming pregnant or early in your pregnancy. Inform your dentist about your pregnancy so that they can tailor your treatment accordingly. As many pregnant women are aware, laying completely flat on your back isn't recommended later in your pregnancy so advise your clinician of your needs and ensure that you speak up for yourself. 

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and to prevent developing plaque. 

Manage Morning Sickness: Rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash after vomiting to help neutralize stomach acid. Avoid brushing immediately after vomiting, as it can further damage enamel softened by acid.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help combat dry mouth, a common pregnancy symptom. Dry mouth can increase the risk of cavities, so staying hydrated is essential.

Eat a Balanced Diet: Consume a diet rich in calcium, vitamins, and minerals to support both your dental and overall health.

Manage Pregnancy Gingivitis: If you experience gum sensitivity or bleeding, don't panic. This is a common symptom during pregnancy. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings can help manage and prevent gingivitis.

Communicate with Your Dentist: Keep your dentist informed about your pregnancy, any medications you're taking, and any changes in your oral health. They can provide guidance and treatment recommendations tailored to your unique needs.

Treatments to be mindful of while pregnant

Dental clinics have special practices in place for pregnant patients but its important for you to make informed decisions. 

One of the most common concerns people have about visiting the dentist while pregnant is being exposed to radiation from x-rays.

Always tell your dentist if you are pregnant, especially if there is a chance that you will need an x-ray. Although x-rays are safe, your dentist may still recommend avoiding them during the first trimester if you're only having a routine check-up. But if you have a dental emergency or severe, non-specific pain, x-rays could still be needed to help your dentist plan your treatment effectively.

However, modern dental x-rays use very low doses of radiation and a single dose is not usually high enough to cause any adverse effects in the development of the fetus.

We generally do not recommend any teeth whitening treatments to be performed whilst you're pregnant and often recommend waiting until after birth for most non-emergency dental treatments.

Teeth whitening and other cosmetic treatments should ideally be avoided during the third trimester in particular, as you may find it uncomfortable to lie still while the whitening gel is applied, cured and working for such a long appointment. 

If you're using a home teeth whitening kit, you should make sure that you check that the concentration of hydrogen peroxide is no more than six percent. Higher concentrations can potentially cause tissue damage unless applied by a professional.

Give yourself one thing less to worry about during your beautiful journey into motherhood by combating your oral health early through a preventative model of care. I booked in my cleans every three months to assist me with the bleeding gums and oral health concerns during my pregnancies which definitely helped ease my discomfort and concerns, even though I never had any issues before or after pregnancy. By following these tips and staying proactive about your oral hygiene, you can enjoy a healthy smile throughout your pregnancy and beyond. Remember that regular dental checkups and open communication with your dentist are key to ensuring your dental care aligns with your pregnancy needs. Prioritize your well-being and that of your baby by nurturing your oral health during this special time.

Take care during your remarkable journey

Dental Care During Your Pregnancy

Having sensitive teeth can be a real pain - literally. That sharp, sudden discomfort when you finally take a sip of that satisfying cup of hot coffee, indulge in an ice cream, slushee, or cold desert, or even breathe in that chilly air. But fear not! Sensitive teeth are actually quite common, and there are steps you can take to alleviate the discomfort and enjoy your favorite foods and drinks without worry. In this blog post, we'll explore the causes of tooth sensitivity and offer some practical tips and solutions to help you find relief and maintain a healthy smile.

Before we delve into the remedies, it's important to understand why tooth sensitivity occurs. The outer layer of your teeth, called enamel, is designed to protect the more sensitive inner layers, including dentin and nerve endings. When the enamel wears down or is compromised, it can expose these sensitive areas, leading to discomfort. Some common causes of tooth sensitivity include:

Enamel Erosion: Over time, enamel can erode due to acidic foods, beverages, or aggressive brushing habits.

Gum Recession: When gums recede, the tooth roots become exposed, which are more sensitive to temperature changes and pressure.

Tooth Decay: Cavities can cause tooth sensitivity, especially when they reach the inner layers of the tooth.

Tooth Grinding: Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can wear down enamel and lead to sensitivity.

You may also experience teeth sensitivity following whitening treatment (whether you’ve done it at home or in chair at a dental clinic). This type of sensitivity is different to everyday sensitivity as it is temporary and often disappears within 24-48 hours following the treatment. 

What can you do to manage sensitive teeth? 

Preventing further enamel erosion is crucial. As you’ve heard over and over again, it is important to brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste twice daily. Avoid brushing too vigorously, as this can exacerbate sensitivity. Finish strong with a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your teeth.

Limit the consumption of acidic foods and beverages such as citrus fruits, soda, and wine to avoid exposure to your enamel. Try to use a straw when drinking acidic beverages to minimize contact with your teeth. Additionally, cut down on sugary snacks and maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium.

Consider switching to a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes contain compounds that help block pain signals to the nerves in your teeth. It is important to not over-use these products and to rotate switching to different brands, as prolonged use may affect the result.

3. Be mindful of your toothbrushing technique

Brushing too hard can wear down your natural enamel and worsen tooth sensitivity. It can also contribute to gum recession in the long run and cause more harm than good. Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush and use gentle, circular motions when brushing.

If you grind your teeth at night (even if you may not know that you do), speak to your dentist about a custom-made mouthguard. Wearing a mouth guard can protect your teeth from damage and reduce sensitivity.

Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleans. They can identify and address issues like cavities or gum recession early on.

Following your six monthly check up and cleans, dentists or hygienists often finish with a fluoride mousse which aims to strengthen your tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity.

In severe cases of sensitivity, your dentist may suggest dental bonding, porcelain veneers or even crowns to cover exposed tooth surfaces and protect them from discomfort or further damage. 

Tooth sensitivity has been a common problem for a while but thankfully there are more ways to manage the discomfort with the right care and attention. Don’t let the pain dictate your life. By following these tips and working closely with your dentist, you can reduce sensitivity and enjoy a comfortable, pain-free smile. Remember, a proactive approach to oral health is key to preventing and addressing tooth sensitivity effectively.

From pain to relief

Managing Tooth Sensitivity

As you may have heard over and over again in some of our other blogs, we stress the importance of regular check up and cleans. Regular dental checkups are critical to maintaining good oral health in the long run. Although it's common for individuals to only go to the dentist when they have a problem or discomfort, regular dental checkups every six months are advised. Think of it like servicing your car. You service your car regularly to make sure everything is topped up and for your vehicle to run smoothly. You don’t just go to the mechanic when something is beeping or your engine stops working as that often will cost you more where you could’ve prevented this from happening in the first place with regular maintenance checks. In this blog post, we will examine the many advantages of routine dental examinations and emphasize the reasons as to why it's crucial to schedule these visits as soon as possible for optimal oral health.

With routine dental examinations, dentists or hygienists are able to spot potential oral health issues in the earliest stages. Your dentist or hygienist can identify concerns like tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, or bite abnormalities in these appointments. Early management can spare you from future expensive and time-consuming procedures while also preventing pain and discomfort.

A dental hygienist will clean your teeth professionally throughout your dental examination. Plaque and tartar accumulation that normal brushing and flossing could miss are removed during this procedure. Professional cleanings aid in the prevention of bad breath, cavities, and gum disease. They will often also make recommendations or offer advice on how to properly care for your smile and brushing or flossing techniques based on your individual requirements.

Oral cancer screenings are part of routine dental examinations. Dentists are trained to recognise early oral cancer indicators, which might be challenging to find on your own. Early detection of oral cancer can lead to more successful treatment, greatly enhancing your chances of making a full recovery.

Gum disease is a common oral health concern that, if left untreated, can eventually result in tooth loss. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your gums and look for symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding or inflamed gums. Gum disease can be stopped in its tracks early on by getting professional cleanings and following advice for good oral hygiene.

Dental anxiety can also be addressed and managed with frequent dental exams. Anxiety levels can gradually diminish with time by creating a regular dental practice and building a relationship of trust with your dentist and dental team. Your dentist will be able to provide better individualized care and a more comfortable experience if you communicate your worries with them openly and at the start.

At your dental checkup, you have the chance to talk to the dentist about any issues or queries you may have regarding your oral health. Your dentist can provide individualized advice on issues including correct brushing and flossing techniques, healthy eating patterns, and oral hygiene bad habits. This advice guarantees that you have the information and resources needed to maintain good oral health in between visits. You can also ask about other treatments you have been thinking about or take interest in such as cosmetic treatments. 

By making regular examinations a priority every six months, you not only extend the life of your teeth but also improve your general health. It is important to establish a routine of going to the dentist and enjoying the advantages of having a healthy smile.

Let's go beyond the brush and see each other regularly

Why regular dental check-ups are essential

No, your dentist does not want to keep secrets from you! Contrary to what many people think, they don’t want you to have cavities or break your teeth just to charge you a fortune for treatment. They actually care about your overall health and well-being. ❤

The drier your mouth, the faster bacteria will grow. Keep yourself hydrated and ensure that you generate enough saliva. Not only does saliva help wash away food and assist in your fight against cavities, but it also has antibacterial agents and aids in repairing teeth. This is your reminder to drink some water - yes, right now!

More people spend money on their hair than their teeth – even though the teeth is the second thing people generally notice when looking at you. WHY?

Plaque can only be removed by you or your dentist. If you don’t brush your teeth or floss, it will legit just stay in your mouth–literally!

Plaque also grows whilst you sleep. What does this mean? It means no, you can’t skip your morning brush, no matter how much of a rush you’re in or how well you cleaned your teeth last night!

If plaque is not removed, it turns into tartar which can only be professionally eviscerated by your dentist or hygienist. Don’t let it get to this.

Bad oral hygiene can lead to gum disease! Nobody wants gum disease 🙁

Brushing too hard can lead to the recession of gums. We recommend using a soft toothbrush head or investing in an electric toothbrush to assist in controlling the pressure.

Mouth and tongue piercings can have a negative effect on oral health. A majority of patients that have oral piercings come in with chipped or broken teeth (don’t let this be you).

Check what your insurance covers BEFORE your dental appointment! In this case, we don't have the answers, your insurance does! Certify that you’re insured for major cosmetic dentistry before you go ahead and ask for 10 veneers.

No matter how good your oral hygiene is, you still need to see your favourite dentist for your 6 monthly check-ups and cleans 🙂 Believe it or not, but dentists have the power of seeing things in your mouth that the average Jo can’t.

Check-ups Articles

Dental Care During Your Pregnancy

Managing Tooth Sensitivity

Why regular dental check-ups are essential

10 Facts that your dentist wants you to know