Pregnancy affects so many parts of a woman’s body. Not only can obvious physical changes be seen, but also many emotional changes affect how a woman feels. Hormonal shifts create changes in the chemicals flowing throughout the body while the growing baby creates shifts within the body’s organs. While most women focus on the most noticeable changes, such as moodiness, pain, swelling and heartburn, they may fail to notice the effect that pregnancy has on their teeth and gums. 


How Does Pregnancy Affect the Teeth?
Many women complain that pregnancy ruins their teeth. While some dental problems certainly do surface during this important part of life, pregnancy itself does not have to ruin the teeth. However, there are some specific changes that happen in the woman’s body during pregnancy that affect oral health. 


First, changes in hormones, specifically in progesterone, can affect the health of the gums. Women may find that their gums suddenly become more tender and begin to bleed when they brush or floss them even if they never bled prior to this. This bleeding tendency should resolve after pregnancy. 


Second, women may find that brushing their teeth makes them feel sick to their stomachs and may avoid brushing or flossing or may not brush for the recommended amount of time each day. This can lead to plaque buildup on the teeth, which can eventually weaken the tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay and possible infection. Plus, vomiting can lead to acid damage on the enamel. 


Third, changes in water stores throughout the body can lead to dehydration. This can then lead to dry mouth, which can eventually cause tooth decay and gum disease if it is not treated. 


Changing Oral Hygiene Routines for Improved Health
Women who have not been following proper oral hygiene habits pre-pregnancy are strongly encouraged to do so now. Brushing at least twice per day for a minimum of two minutes each time can scrub away surface film, sugar, acids and tartar from the teeth. Regular flossing every day can keep the gums healthy and prevent gum disease from continuing after pregnancy. 


Important Vitamins and Foods for Oral Health during Pregnancy 

The most important supplements for oral health during pregnancy are calcium and vitamin D. Both should be taken together because vitamin D helps to improve the uptake of calcium within the body. Calcium is necessary for growing bones in the baby, but it is also vital for the woman’s gum health. While these important nutrients can be found in fortified dairy products, eggs, bone-in salmon and sardines, calcium can also be found in dark green, leafy vegetables. 


Dental Procedures during Pregnancy
Some women may wonder whether they should avoid certain dental procedures, such as the common X-ray, when they head to the dental centre in Ottawa during their pregnancies. However, many dental procedures are safe when done at certain times during the pregnancy and when one’s practitioner is aware that the woman is pregnant. A dental X-ray gives off very low levels of radiation but is perfectly safe because the practitioner will cover the woman’s abdomen and throat with a leaded apron for protection. 


In addition, local anesthetics, such as lidocaine are perfectly safe during pregnancy. Therefore, they can be used for fillings, root canals and other procedures. Caution will be taken with medications that are prescribed during pregnancy, however, because not all are safe for the growing baby. 


Regular Dental Appointments for Improved Oral Health
Throughout all stages of life, regular dental examinations and cleanings are vital for ensuring that the teeth and gums remain healthy. However, during pregnancy, these regular appointments are even more important. The best times to be seen are during the second and third trimesters when women are typically feeling somewhat better physically and when major parts of the baby’s organs and systems are developed. Of course, women should always notify their dentists when they are pregnant so that the practitioner can provide the best and safest level of care for the woman and her baby. Contact us today to book an appointment and to find excellent care for your teeth and gums before, during and after your pregnancy at the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in South Ottawa