When you find out you’re pregnant, a special and often exciting period begins. Many people immediately think of nausea and fatigue when it comes to pregnancy complaints, but much more changes in your body. Your oral health also deserves extra attention during these months. Pregnancy can, after all, affect your teeth and gums. We’re happy to tell you what changes, which risks pregnancy brings, and why a visit to the dentist is especially important during this period.

How does pregnancy affect your oral health?

Being pregnant affects your whole body, and therefore your oral health too. Because of the changes in your hormone levels, such as a higher production of progesterone and estrogen, the chance of problems increases. The gums in particular are more sensitive during this period, and dental plaque forms more quickly, which increases the chance of cavities and inflammation.

Inflamed gums and pregnancy (pregnancy gingivitis)

Hormones may make your gums more sensitive. This can lead to inflammation, swelling, or bleeding gums. You’ll mainly notice this while brushing or flossing. That is why it is important to take extra good care of your teeth and gums during pregnancy to prevent or reduce these problems.

Increased risk of cavities

Many pregnant women experience a change in their eating patterns or suffer from (morning) sickness. As a result, your teeth come into contact with acid more often and the risk of cavities increases. By rinsing your mouth well after vomiting, you protect your teeth.

Pregnancy tumors

Some women develop so-called benign ‘pregnancy tumors’ on their gums. These growths are not dangerous and develop as a result of inflammation or irritation. They disappear on their own after delivery, but sometimes feel uncomfortable.

Canker sores and pregnancy

If you are pregnant, you are more likely to suffer from canker sores. Because of the hormonal changes and a possibly lowered resistance, the chance of these mouth ulcers is greater. Canker sores are not harmful but often very painful and annoying. When in doubt, always consult your dentist.

Pregnancy and dry mouth

A dry mouth during pregnancy is usually an effect of hormonal changes. It is also possible that this is a sign of dehydration. By drinking enough water and eating moisture-rich foods, such as vegetables and fruit, you counter this.

Toothache during pregnancy

If you suffer from a toothache during pregnancy, it is important to discuss this with your dentist. It is possible that your hormones are affecting your oral health.

Pregnant and the dentist: is this possible?

It is not dangerous to visit the dentist during your pregnancy; in fact, it is very important. Do indicate in advance that you are pregnant, as we prefer to postpone some treatments until after delivery. Our dentists also give advice on how best to care for your teeth during pregnancy.

Anesthesia at the dentist during pregnancy

Even when you are pregnant, it is possible to receive anesthesia from your dentist. It is important, though, that your dentist is aware of your pregnancy. They will then choose a light, local anesthesia that is not harmful to your baby.

Inflamed gums and pregnancy

You may know the saying that every child costs a tooth, but fortunately that is not reality. It is true that pregnancy gives you an increased chance of gum inflammation. This has to do with the high blood flow during pregnancy, which puts more pressure on the gums. This may cause swelling, redness, and irritation. There’s also a good chance that your gums bleed more easily while brushing. With the right care, fortunately these problems are quickly resolved.

Precautions during pregnancy

With the right care for your teeth, you don’t have to worry about oral health problems. As long as you brush carefully twice a day and floss the small spaces between your teeth well, there is no reason for problems. We understand that the temptation is quite strong to leave bleeding gums, which are therefore already inflamed, alone, and that in case of nausea it is difficult to brush the back molars. Still, it is important to keep these spots extra clean. Use a toothbrush with a small head for the back molars, for example. Visit your dentist an extra time if you are in doubt or have questions.

Nausea and oral health

A pregnancy can unfortunately be accompanied by nausea, sometimes so severe that women have to vomit regularly. We understand that you want to brush your teeth right afterward to get rid of the bad taste. Still, we advise against this. Even though stomach acid attacks the tooth enamel, your toothbrush and toothpaste have an abrasive effect. Because the enamel is already softer, you easily brush it away, with potentially even bigger problems as a result. First rinse your mouth with water or a mouthwash, and only then brush your teeth.

When to get in touch?

Do you notice that your teeth and/or gums are more sensitive now that you are pregnant? Or do you see early discoloration or rough spots on the enamel? Then get in touch with your dentist. They will give you advice on how to improve your oral health or which treatment(s) they recommend. The problems are easier to resolve when you discover them at an early stage.

Contact iSmile Tandartspraktijk

Would you like advice about your oral health, or do you notice something unusual about your teeth? Then feel free to get in touch with the iSmile dental practice. Our expert dentists and dental hygienists are happy to guide you toward better oral health. Call 020 218 42 57, send an email to info@ismile-tandartspraktijk.nl, or make an appointment online right away via the buttons below.

About Leena Ibrahim

Leena Ibrahim is the founder of iSmile Tandartspraktijk and has been working as a dentist for more than twenty years. After her training as a Doctor of Dental Surgery at Western University in Canada, she gained four years of experience as a general dentist before settling in the Netherlands. With iSmile Tandartspraktijk, she realized her vision of high-quality dental care in a calm and personal environment.

Leena has a special affinity with anxious patients and is certified to carry out treatments with laughing gas and sedation. In addition, she completed extensive continuing education, including in the field of implantology, so that she can keep offering her patients the best possible care. In her blogs, she shares her knowledge and advice to help you toward healthy and strong teeth.