Pregnancy is a wonderful time in a woman’s life. But it’s journey is remarkably different for every woman, from the day you get the news to the day you carry your bundle of joy, you will go through different phases, your mindset, body and soul will go through numerous changes.
First of all The old wives’ tale that warns a woman to expect a lost tooth for every baby is false. Losing a tooth is not a normal part of pregnancy, and if you do, you most likely already had an existing dental problem. You are less likely to have dental problems during pregnancy if you already have good oral hygiene habits. Like:
- Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste.
- Floss between your teeth.
- Visit your dentist regularly.
Most pregnant women might experience these problems gum problems, vomiting, cravings for sugary foods, retching while brushing teeth and these problems that can have an effect on the oral health.
Here are few home care tips to help reduce the effect of these problems on your oral health.
Gum problems
During pregnancy, the gum problems that occur are not due to increased plaque, but a worse response to plaque as a result of increased hormone levels.
Home care tips:
- Switch to a softer toothbrush your teeth regularly, at least twice every day.
- Use toothpaste that contains fluoride (if you’re not already doing so) to help strengthen your teeth against decay.
- If you have gum problems during pregnancy, see a dentist after delivery.
Although most types of gum problems caused by pregnancy hormones resolve after birth, some may still need treatment before it resolves.
Vomiting can damage teeth
Pregnancy hormones soften the ring of muscle that keeps food inside the stomach. Gastric reflux (regurgitating food or drink) or the vomiting associated with morning sickness can coat your teeth with strong stomach acids. Repeated reflux and vomiting can damage tooth enamel and increase the risk of decay.
Home care tips:
- Avoid brushing your teeth immediately after vomiting. While the teeth are covered in stomach acids, the vigorous action of the toothbrush may scratch the tooth enamel.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with plain tap water.
- Follow up with a fluoridated mouthwash.
- If you don’t have a fluoridated mouthwash, put a dab of fluoridated toothpaste on your finger and smear it over your teeth. Rinse thoroughly with water.
- Brush your teeth at least an hour after vomiting.
Retching while brushing teeth
Some pregnant women find that brushing their teeth, particularly the molars, provokes retching. However, you risk tooth decay if you don’t brush regularly.
Home care tips:
- Use a brush with a small head, such as a brush made for toddlers.
- Take your time. Slow down your brushing action.
- It may help to close your eyes and concentrate on your breathing.
- Try other distractions, such as listening to music.
- If the taste of the toothpaste seems to provoke your gag reflex, switch to another brand. Alternatively, brush your teeth with water and follow up with a fluoridated mouthwash. Go back to brushing with fluoridated toothpaste as soon as you can.
Food cravings while pregnant
Some women experience unusual food cravings while they are pregnant. A regular desire for sugary snacks may increase your risk of tooth decay.
Home care tips:
- Try to snack on low-sugar foods instead.
- Choose healthier options such as fresh fruits.
- Rinse your mouth with water or an alcohol-free mouth rinse, or brush your teeth after having sugary snacks.
I hope these home oral care tips has been helpful, share with fellow pregnant people and stay tuned for more information.
