Our last blog focussed on baby’s tooth care, but it’s also so important to look after your teeth really well while pregnant. Why? Well……

• Firstly, pregnancy hormones actually cause adult teeth to move in the gums and increases the risk of gum disease. Whaaa??? The increased level of hormones circulating in the body during pregnancy causes teeth to become more sensitive and sensitive teeth are more prone to infection and swelling which can loosen teeth.  Amazingly, almost half of all women will encounter gingivitis (early stage gum disease) during pregnancy. However, if left untreated…..
• Gingivitis can develop into periodontitis which causes irreversible damage to teeth and gums. Also, untreated gum disease is linked to low birth weights and premature delivery!!!
• If you are one of the unlucky ones to actually get sick during pregnancy, you are at increased risk as the acid from your stomach erodes the enamel on your teeth, causing them to weaken and be more susceptible to decay. Acidity in the mouth can also be caused by a change in diet… (craving any acidic foods anyone??) and increased acidity leads to increased cavities.
• Also, cavity causing bacteria CAN BE PASSED onto children in the womb increasing the chance of your child developing tooth decay.

So, what should you do?

Firstly, it is important to continue to see your dentist while pregnant, maybe even every three months so they can ensure your teeth are staying strong and healthy.

Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day and clean between teeth once a day. Use a toothpaste that has flouride so help strengthen your teeth. If you are finding it hard to stomach the really minty flavours, shop around to find one that doesn’t taste too strong.

If you do suffer from morning sickness (I feel ya 🤢!) it is important not to brush your teeth directly after getting sick as this is when the teeth are at their most vulnerable and brushing them may damage them further. Instead, rinse your mouth with water and after 30 minutes or so, brush your teeth.

Choose your snacks carefully. I know, I know, often all you crave are sugary foods like chocolate and fruits, but both these foods will damage your teeth…. opt instead for foods such as cheese and crackers. Take particular care to get enough vitamins A and D, calcium and protein during the 3rd and 6th months of pregnancy as this is the time when your baby’s own teeth will develop.

Calcium is so so important in a pregnant woman’s diet as this mineral is literally sucked out of mum's bones to strengthen the baby's bones if there isn’t enough in the diet. Without sufficient calcium mum’s bones can become weakened- yikes! So, while pregnant it is important that mum gets enough calcium in her diet…. another reason why the crackers and cheese snack is a good idea.

So, there you go….. as if we needed something else to worry about during our pregnancies. But the good news is that with a little awareness and care you can keep those fiacla looking their best for all those new baby pics!