Pregnancy transforms the female body in a number of ways. As your body adjusts to accommodate another human being, your mouth may go through a change all its own. It is important to take proper care of your oral health during pregnancy in order to ensure your smile shines bright after birth. Listed below is an assortment of oral health concerns for pregnant women that you can keep in mind during maternity.
Dental Erosion
Morning sickness is a big component of dental erosion. Frequent vomiting can wear away at the enamel of your smile because of the acid in the vomit. If you are suffering from morning sickness, try not to brush your teeth right after throwing up. You can use a mixture of baking soda and water to rinse out your mouth and neutralize some of the acid that remains. Then you can brush your teeth like normal.
Pregnancy Gingivitis
Gingivitis is common among pregnant women. Increased hormone levels can cause certain bacteria to grow more rapidly than normal, which can lead to gingivitis. Symptoms can show up as early as the second month of your pregnancy. If you notice that your gums look inflamed or bleed when brushing, you may want to consult with your dentist about the possibility of gingivitis.
Pregnancy Granuloma
Pregnancy granuloma is the presence of small red nodules in the mouth. These usually occur around the gum line, but they can show up anywhere. This form of granuloma happens in 1% to 5% of pregnant women, but not a lot is known about its causes at this time. Pregnancy granuloma is most likely to develop in the second trimester, and it can last after a child is born.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is another common dental concern for pregnant women. If you are having a hard time maintaining the moisture levels in your mouth, try drinking more water throughout the day. You may also chew on sugarless gum to improve the saliva output in your mouth. This will also help keep your mouth clean in between brushing, which will help you fight off bad breath.
Oral Hygiene Tips For Pregnant Women
You may not be able to avoid all of the issues listed above, but you can minimize your chances of encountering them. Here are some quick oral hygiene tips for pregnant women:
- Eat A Well-Balanced Diet
- Drink Plenty Of Water
- Consume High Levels Of Protein, Calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D
- Brush Twice A Day And Floss Once A Day
- Use Toothpaste With High Levels Of Fluoride
