Dental care for pregnant women. What is important to know?

As usual, pregnant women are more concerned about their future baby than themselves. They often forget to brush their teeth, and during this period they should brush them especially responsibly, as hormonal changes during pregnancy make the gums more susceptible to local irritants - plaque. Poor oral hygiene and high levels of plaque are particularly harmful for pregnant women who feel unwell. This can lead to widespread or localised gingival hyperplasia, otherwise known as pregnancy gingivitis. Pregnancy gingivitis causes the gums to become swollen, red, painful and bleed when touched with a toothbrush. Most women stop brushing their teeth thinking it will go away, but this is even more detrimental to oral hygiene. Gingivitis in pregnant women usually develops between the third and ninth month of pregnancy, so oral hygiene is especially important during this period!

Vomiting and teeth in pregnancy

Some women with pregnancy toxicosis cannot eat certain foods, feel nauseous and vomit frequently. You may not know it, but vomiting is bad for your teeth. Why, you ask? The formation of an acidic medium increases the likelihood of erosion of tooth enamel. If oral hygiene is not maintained, a lot of plaque builds up on the teeth and demineralisation can develop, as well as active multiple decay with repeated vomiting. It is therefore recommended to rinse the mouth after vomiting with water and baking soda (a glass of water with one teaspoon of baking soda) or milk. It is important to note that it is not recommended to brush the teeth immediately after vomiting, as this can damage the tooth enamel.

When should I visit the dentist?

Women need to see a dentist regularly before pregnancy to have professional oral hygiene to remove tartar and plaque build-up. Ideally, a woman should take care of her oral health before becoming pregnant. Carious teeth should be repaired and questionable fillings replaced before pregnancy. If dental treatment is needed during pregnancy, it is best to do it during the second trimester, as this is the safest period of pregnancy for dentists to repair the teeth of pregnant women. During the first and third trimesters, only the most essential dental care is provided (after consultation with a gynaecologist).