Dental Checkup During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

When you are pregnant, your body goes through numerous changes - including your oral health. At Thomson Medical, we understand that expectant mothers may have concerns about their dental care during pregnancy. 

Let us explore why dental health is crucial during this special time and how you can maintain a healthy smile for both you and your baby.

Is dental care safe during pregnancy?

The short answer is yes! With proper precautions, dental care is not only safe but essential during pregnancy. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene can prevent complications that might affect your overall health and your baby's development.

Dental risks during pregnancy

Pregnancy can increase your risk of certain dental issues.

1) Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)

Gingivitis

• What it is: 

  • Gingivitis is a condition that happens to 60 to 75 percent of pregnant women.

• Causes: 

  • Hormonal changes and increased blood flow to gum tissues can make them more susceptible to inflammation. This, combined with potential changes in oral hygiene habits, may lead to plaque buildup.

• Symptoms: 

  • Red, swollen gums that may bleed easily when brushing or flossing.

• If left untreated: 

  • Can lead to early-stage gum disease, and progression to periodontitis, potentially causing bone damage and loose teeth. There's also an increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight due to periodontitis.

Dry mouth and decay

• Causes: 

  • Pregnancy can decrease saliva production, leading to a dry mouth. Morning sickness can also expose teeth to stomach acids, increasing the risk of decay.

• Symptoms: 

  • Dry, sticky feeling in the mouth, frequent thirst, and possible bad breath.

• If left untreated: 

  • Dry mouth and increased acid exposure can lead to a higher risk of cavities, oral infections, teeth sensitivity, and persistent bad breath.

2) Tooth wear and sensitivity

• Causes: 

  • Frequent vomiting due to morning sickness and increased gastric reflux during pregnancy can expose teeth to harmful stomach acids.

• Symptoms: 

  • Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks; possible visible wear on tooth surfaces.

• If left untreated: 

  • Prolonged acid exposure can lead to enamel erosion and increased tooth sensitivity. This may result in a higher risk of decay and potential cosmetic issues.

• Tip: 

  • After vomiting, rinse your mouth with water and wait 30 minutes before brushing to prevent further damage to your teeth.

Want to learn more about common dental problems in adults and how to care for your teeth? Check out our Guide for Dental Hygiene here. 

How dental health affects your baby

Poor oral health during pregnancy isn't just about your comfort, it can have serious implications for your baby:

• Increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight

  • Gum disease can trigger inflammation and potentially early labour. Pregnant women with periodontal disease are up to 7 times more likely to deliver preterm, low-birth-weight babies.

• Higher chances of preeclampsia

  • Women with gum disease have a 2-3 times higher risk of developing preeclampsia, a high blood pressure disorder during pregnancy.

• Potential transmission of cavity-causing bacteria

  • Mothers with poor oral health can transmit decay-causing bacteria to babies. Babies of mothers with untreated cavities are 3 times more likely to develop early tooth decay.

The myth about calcium loss

You may have heard that pregnancy causes calcium loss from your teeth. This isn't true! The myth likely originated from pregnant women having a higher risk of cavities and tooth loss. However, these dental problems are due to poor oral hygiene, not calcium loss. That being said, do consume calcium-rich foods as they help your baby's development and lower your risk of osteoporosis later in life.

Dental care during pregnancy

1) When is the best time for dental treatments during pregnancy?

• Ideally, you should schedule a check-up before getting pregnant. 

• The first trimester of pregnancy is the most important for your child’s development. 

• The second trimester is the safest for most dental treatments such as fillings and scaling if you are already pregnant. 

• Meanwhile, during the third trimester, the stresses associated with dental visits and procedures can cause complications. 

2) What to expect during dental visits

• Questions about your pregnancy and overall health

• Oral examinations

• Your dentist addressing any problematic areas

• Discussions about necessary treatments 

3) Important considerations 

• Exposure to X-ray

  • While dental X-rays pose low risk, they're best avoided if possible. However, they may be necessary in emergencies.

• Elective treatments

  • We recommend postponing non-essential procedures like teeth whitening until after pregnancy.

• Medications

  • Some painkillers and antibiotics should be avoided during pregnancy. Always inform your healthcare providers about your pregnancy status.

Learn more about the dental services provided by Thomson Dental Centre. Our specialists will be there to guide you on what procedures you can undergo while pregnant.

Tips for good dental hygiene during pregnancy

Though hormones may aggravate gum disease, plaque is the major cause of gingivitis. Keeping your teeth clean can dramatically reduce or prevent gum disease.

• Brush twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste - to strengthen the teeth and prevent decay

• Floss your teeth every day - to get rid of plaque and food between your teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach

• Avoid sugary food and drinks - to reduce the risk of cavities

• Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol - to prevent harm to both you and your baby

• Regular dental visits - to spot dental issues such as gum disease

Your dental health journey during pregnancy

Maintaining good oral health during pregnancy can be challenging, but remember proper dental care is crucial for both you and your baby's well-being, and professional support is readily available.

At Thomson Dental Centre, we are committed to supporting you through every stage of your pregnancy journey. Our team of experienced dentists provides not just expert dental care, but also the guidance and support you need to maintain optimal oral health during this exciting time.

If you have any concerns about your dental health during pregnancy, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Take that first step towards ensuring a healthy smile for you and your little one by scheduling a check-up today.
The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please request an appointment to consult with a specialist at Thomson Medical.