Pregnancy is an exciting time. If you are expecting a little one, congratulations! We know that your days are full of anticipation, waiting to meet the newest member of your family. That’s why we want to make sure you are in the know when it comes to those details about your dental health.

Why? Because your teeth and gums need a bit of extra tender loving care during those nine months of pregnancy. In this article, we’ll tell you what you need to know.

Dental Care During Pregnancy: The First Trimester

During those initial months of pregnancy, your body is working harder than ever. Hormonal changes start in those first few weeks, and they can have a big impact on your oral health. Rising levels of estrogen and progesterone can cause your gums to become more sensitive and prone to inflammation, leading to a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. This can result in red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Tips to Prevent Pregnancy Gingivitis

Here is what you can do to protect your teeth and gums throughout your pregnancy. 

• Brush twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean your teeth and gums.
• Floss daily. This helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash. This can help reduce plaque and control gingivitis.
• Visit your dentist regularly. Professional dental cleanings are a must to keep your mouth healthy. Be sure to let us know about the baby during your visit, as we may have some extra tips to share with you.

Morning sickness is another challenge many pregnant women face. Frequent vomiting can expose your teeth to stomach acid, eroding enamel and leading to tooth decay. To mitigate the damage, follow these tips.

• Rinse your mouth. After vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a mixture of baking soda and water to neutralize the acid.
• Wait to brush. Don’t brush your teeth immediately after vomiting; wait about 30 minutes to avoid further enamel erosion.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking water multiple times daily can help wash away food particles and acid. Try to drink at least eight cups a day (and 12 if possible) to keep your body hydrated and keep your mouth clean.

Maintaining Your Dental Health: The Second Trimester

The second trimester is such an exciting time. Most moms-to-be start feeling a bit better and recover from morning sickness. Plus, this is when your baby bump begins to show. You may be ready to start shopping for the baby’s nursery. And while this can be super exciting, keep your dental health high on the priority list too.

The second trimester is an ideal time for routine dental checkups and cleanings. As we said earlier, the morning sickness has usually subsided, making it easier to sit through dental appointments as your gag reflex is less likely to be triggered. Additionally, your baby’s development is more stable, so it’s safer for you to receive dental care. Treating any dental issues during this period in your pregnancy is necessary because untreated dental problems can lead to infections, affecting both your and your baby’s health.

Common dental procedures that are safe during pregnancy include professional dental cleanings, cavity fillings, and even root canals if needed. Your Greenville, SC, dentist will use pregnancy-safe methods and materials to protect you and your baby. Regular dental checkups and cleanings help keep your mouth healthy during this special time in your family’s future.

Last But Not Least: The Third Trimester

You are eagerly awaiting your new baby’s arrival by this time in your pregnancy. Your body is changing daily, and your little one is likely wiggling, showing you that they are getting ready to meet you. And while this is exciting, we understand that these physical changes can be a bit uncomfortable. That’s why we take extra care to keep you comfortable during any dental visits at this point in your pregnancy. Our extra care and attention is just another thing that makes Monroe Family Dentistry the best dentist in Greenville, SC.

Here’s a bit of what you can expect during these visits.

• Extra comfort measures: We provide special accommodations to keep you comfortable during your appointment.
• Awareness of gum disease: You are more susceptible to gum disease, so we keep a close eye on your gum health.
• Postponing longer treatments: To prevent discomfort, we suggest postponing longer non-critical dental treatments until after your baby is born.
• Reinforcing oral hygiene: We will reiterate the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene at home, including brushing and flossing regularly.

Pack a dental care kit for your hospital stay as you prepare for your delivery. Include a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss to keep your mouth clean and fresh. Good oral hygiene will help you feel more comfortable and confident as you welcome your new baby.

Common Dental Issues During Pregnancy

Let’s recap and reiterate a few of the most common dental issues you may face during pregnancy. In our list below, we’ll also provide helpful reminders for your oral hygiene routine.

Pregnancy Gingivitis

• Symptoms: Red, swollen, and bleeding gums.
• Prevention and Treatment: Brush and floss daily, use an antimicrobial mouthwash, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.

Increased Risk of Cavities

• Causes: changes in diet, increased mouth acidity from morning sickness, and potential lapses in oral hygiene.
• Preventive Measures: Maintain a consistent brushing and flossing routine, use fluoride toothpaste, and avoid sugary snacks and drinks.

Pregnancy Tumors

Non-cancerous growths appear on the gums of approximately 5% of expecting moms. These can look alarming but are generally harmless and often go away after childbirth.

Tips for Maintaining Dental Care During Pregnancy

• Daily Brushing and Flossing: Emphasize the importance of a consistent routine to remove plaque and prevent gum disease.
• Use of Fluoride Toothpaste and Mouthwash: Helps strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
• Dietary Tips: To support your dental health, eat foods rich in calcium and vitamins and avoid sugary and acidic foods.

Book your professional cleaning at Monroe Family Dentistry.

At Monroe Family Dentistry, we’re here to support you during this exciting time in your life. Plus, when you visit us, we’ll provide some helpful tips on oral care for your new baby once they arrive in the world.
Book an appointment with us today if you are due for a professional dental cleaning.