The Impact of Pregnancy and Oral Health
Pregnancy causes a lot of changes in your body and your oral health. Changes in hormones, bacterial status, and the overall stress it takes to support a baby all influence the mouth. These factors can also affect the health of your child.
Table of Contents
Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy
Hormones influence pregnancy and oral health. Estrogen and Progesterone contribute to the physical and emotional changes in the body during pregnancy. Practicing good oral hygiene is important to prepare for these changes.
- These hormones affect the response we have to bacteria. Plaque in our mouth houses millions of bacteria that release toxins on our gum tissues and teeth causing cavities and gum disease.
- Blood supply is another factor in hormonal changes. Pregnancy Gingivitis leads to an increase in bleeding and inflammation in the gum tissue. It can be very alarming but the best thing is to keep brushing and flossing.
- Hormones also affect your saliva flow leading to a dry mouth. This change during pregnancy can lead to increased bacteria toxin activity.
Pregnancy and Food Cravings
It’s no surprise that some foods are better for your oral health than others. Pregnancy food cravings can lead to increase snacking which feeds bacteria. Choose foods and beverages that contain less sugar. If you wake up in the middle of the night with a craving, brush and floss after. Our Dental Nutrition Guide has more tips.
Morning Sickness
Around 70% of women experience morning sickness during pregnancy. Heartburn and acid reflux are also very common during. Stomach acid on your teeth weakens enamel. The acidity also changes the pH in your mouth increasing bacteria activity.
- Recent studies have shown that brushing right after morning sickness actually works the acidity into the enamel. Instead, swish with water or mouthwash before to neutralize and avoid erosion.
- Drinking water throughout the day can help with morning sickness symptoms and keep your smile healthy. Morning sickness can be different for many expecting mothers. Click here for more tips and always consult your doctor with any concerns.
Pregnancy and Oral Health Linked with Infant Health
Why is oral hygiene so important during pregnancy?
A mother’s oral health is connected to their babies health in many ways. It comes down to the bacteria’s ability to travel in the bloodstream. This bacteria is linked to the production of the chemical Prostaglandins and can trigger preterm labor.
Parents can also transmit aggressive bacteria to the baby after they are born through saliva. This is called vertical transmission. Avoid sharing utensils with your baby to avoid it.
Homecare Tips for Pregnancy and Oral Health
Many changes during pregnancy are out of the mother’s control. Here are some tips to support the mother and baby during these changes.
- Oral Hygiene: To fight the bacterial changes in pregnancy, good brushing and flossing are key. Using anti-gingivitis products combined with the mechanical removal of plaque will help target bacteria.
- Avoid Prenatal Vitamins in Gummy Form: Unfortunately, gummy vitamins have a lot of sugar in them. The sticky gummies get stuck in the grooves and in between the teeth and increase the risk of cavities.
- Increase Water Intake: Drinking water throughout the day is very important. Frequent sips of water help neutralize bacteria, wash away acid, prevent dry mouth, and keep you hydrated. All very important factors for pregnancy and oral health.
For more homecare tips, check out our Health Smile Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does poor oral hygiene affect pregnancy?
Poor oral hygiene in the mother can affect the health of the baby. Studies have shown that gum disease in the mother can lead to premature birth and low birth weight in her child. Click here to learn more about the studies.
Does your mouth change when pregnant?
The mouth can change in several ways that impact the mother’s oral health. Hormonal changes can cause gums that are more sensitive and bleed very easily. These hormonal changes can also lead to decrease saliva production increasing risks for cavities.
Take Home Smile Store
Visit our Take Home Smile store for educational brochures and other fun printables to help with oral hygiene. All products can be customized to fit your dental needs.
