Pregnant? What You Need to Know About Dental Care & Healthy Babies

Dental health is the foundation of your overall well-being, especially during pregnancy. Research has found a link between gum disease and premature birth with low birth weight, which can put your baby at risk of a number of health conditions. In fact, research reveals that 18 out of every 100 premature births are associated with periodontal disease.

Just as you pay more attention to your diet and exercise plan and avoid smoking and drinking, you also need to focus on your dental health and reduce your risk of periodontal disease. Here’s advice from Beckham Square Family Dental on what pregnant mothers need to know about dental care and their baby.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the mouth. These bacteria feed on the sugar you eat. It typically begins with gingivitis (inflammation) and progresses to damage to bone and tissue. In severe cases, this gum disease can even lead to tooth loss.

Gingivitis in your mouth can also affect your baby’s health. Although the underlying mechanisms linking it with prenatal health are unclear, research suggests that patients with gingivitis and more serious gum disease have a higher risk of premature birth, and their babies tend to be born at a lower birth weight, which can lead to a host of health problems for your baby.

Unfortunately, nature doesn’t make it easy for new moms. Hormonal changes during pregnancy make it easier for bacteria in the gums to proliferate, leading to gum disease. To top it all off, morning sickness brings strong stomach acids that can further erode teeth and gums.

A Word About Pregnancy Tumors

You don’t need to worry about pregnancy tumors; they’re not cancer, despite the scary name. Pregnancy tumors are benign growths of tissue on the gums, usually during the second trimester. They’re often caused by plaque buildup. They bleed easily but usually disappear shortly after your baby is born.

Is Dental Care Safe During Pregnancy?

You can — and should — see a dentist during pregnancy. We always appreciate it when our pregnant patients let us know of their conditions so that we can adjust their dental care. If you plan to become pregnant, let your dentist know as early as possible. Dentists and doctors need to be especially careful when prescribing medications to pregnant women. Some medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, can affect your baby’s developing teeth.

Tell your dentist about any changes you’ve noticed since becoming pregnant. Let them know about any special medications you’re taking.

Ask your dentist to check your gums and advise you on the best way to care for them. Most dental treatments are safe during pregnancy. If possible, it’s best to avoid treatment until after the first trimester.

Pro tip: If you do need dental treatment during pregnancy, you’ll likely be more comfortable lying back in the dental chair with your right hip elevated with a pillow or towel.

Are Dental X–Rays Safe During Pregnancy?

X-rays are generally safe during pregnancy under certain conditions, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. As a general rule, we’ll X-ray a pregnant woman when the benefits outweigh the risks. Sometimes, the information an X-ray provides can be important for both the baby’s and the mother’s health — even life-saving.

That being said, if your dentist recommends X-rays during pregnancy, keep in mind that most X-rays expose the uterus and baby to very little radiation. At Beckham Square Family Dental, we typically take X-rays only of your teeth. Your chest, belly, and reproductive organs are covered with a protective apron.

It’s a good idea to let us know if you are planning to become pregnant. This way, we can get any necessary X-rays out of the way to ensure your safety and your baby’s.

Looking After Your Teeth During Pregnancy

Great dental care is important for your overall health at all times, but it’s especially crucial during pregnancy. Be sure to brush your teeth and gums with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes, at least twice a day — just after breakfast and before bed. Floss once daily.

Some pregnant women experience a gag reflex while brushing. If this happens to you, try using a soft, small-headed toothbrush designed for children. You can also try brushing later in the morning. When cleaning your back teeth, focus on your breathing, almost as if in a meditative state, to reduce the reflex.

Be sure to drink plenty of tap water. The fluoride in the water can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. It will not harm you or your developing baby. Rinse your mouth with tap water between meals.

Avoid sugary drinks and diet soda. Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Try to eat at least four servings of calcium-rich foods, such as milk and other dairy products (A 250mL glass of milk is one serving.). Calcium can be essential for your baby’s teeth and bones. For a dietary boost, take 1,000 mg of calcium daily.

Chew sugarless or xylitol-containing gum 2-3 times a day. This will increase your saliva flow, which naturally bathes your teeth.

Tips for Morning Sickness

If you have morning sickness or vomit, rinse your mouth with a water-and-baking-soda mixture to neutralize stomach acid. Apply fluoride toothpaste to your teeth to further protect them from acid. If possible, wait at least one hour before brushing your teeth after vomiting. This will give the enamel time to recover from the acid attack.

At Beckham Square Family Dental, we provide gentle, personalized dental care for patients at every stage of pregnancy. We take extra precautions to ensure your comfort, no matter which trimester you’re in. We care about your safety and will help you maintain optimal oral health for both you and your baby.