Does Pregnancy Affect My Oral Health?

During pregnancy, your body undergoes huge changes that will affect your oral health. Hormonal changes increase the risk of pregnancy gingivitis, a disease that increases gum sensitivity to plaque bacteria. As a result, your gums might bleed more easily during brushing and flossing and may look red and swollen. Pregnancy gingivitis will clear up once your baby is born but the risks are more serious if you already have active gum disease. Advanced gum disease or periodontitis has been associated with premature birth and low birth weight babies.

How We Can Help You During Pregnancy

Ideally, we would urge you to have a full dental check-up before trying for a baby or as soon as you know you are pregnant. Our dentists here at Apple Dental will closely monitor your dental health and attending dental check-ups and cleanings is even more important than normal. We can provide dietary and oral hygiene advice, as well as coping strategies for morning sickness because strong stomach acids can damage your teeth. If you have pregnancy gingivitis or active gum disease we may suggest more frequent hygiene appointments to help to keep your gums healthy. Please don’t worry, as we will take every precaution to ensure all treatment provided will not harm your baby.