A tooth for every child?
“One tooth for every child” – every pregnant woman has probably heard this phrase before. Is there any truth in this saying? Unfortunately, yes, because pregnant women have an increased risk of gum inflammation and periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. This makes proper dental care during pregnancy particularly important.
The gums are susceptible to inflammation during pregnancy
Why teeth are at risk during pregnancy
Gum inflammation and periodontitis
During pregnancy, your gums are particularly sensitive and prone to inflammation. The hormonal changes and increased progesterone levels ensure that the gums are supplied with more blood and therefore become more sensitive.
Periodontitis, or periodontal disease, is an inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria. It can cause swelling, pain, bleeding, tooth loosening and even tooth loss. If you notice signs of periodontitis, you should consult your dentist about treatment options.
Signs of periodontitis
- Bleeding gums
- Swollen and reddened gums
- Bad breath
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Gum recession
- Sensitive teeth
- Tooth movement
- Loosening of teeth
Caries risk during pregnancy
The risk of tooth decay is also increased during pregnancy. Caries bacteria produce acid that attacks the tooth. Normally, the bacteria are neutralized by your saliva. As the pH value of your saliva shifts into the acidic range during pregnancy, your saliva can no longer neutralize the caries bacteria itself. This is also exacerbated by stomach acid if you suffer from nausea with vomiting.
In addition to proper dental care, you should make sure you eat a healthy and balanced diet and, above all, avoid consuming too much sugar, as this promotes the development of tooth decay. For cravings, find a sugar-free snack that you like and always have with you.
Effect on your baby's development
Gum infections such as periodontitis have an impact on your baby’s development and can lead to pregnancy complications such as high blood pressure, premature birth and a lower birth weight. It is assumed that bacteria enter the bloodstream during an infection and are transported to the unborn child, where the inflammation has a negative effect on the pregnancy.
Proper dental care during pregnancy
To optimally protect your teeth and gums during pregnancy, you should make sure you clean them thoroughly. Especially if you are struggling with morning sickness, there are a few things you can pay attention to.
Brush your teeth
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Use a toothbrush with particularly soft bristles to protect your gums
Fluoride & dental floss
- Use fluoride toothpaste or additional fluoride gel. This protects your teeth from tooth decay. Discuss the best dosage with your dentist.
- Use dental floss. The areas between the teeth are particularly popular with bacteria and should be cleaned thoroughly.
Nausea & vomiting
- After vomiting, make sure you rinse your mouth well and wait a little before brushing your teeth to protect your gums.
- If you have problems with nausea when brushing your teeth, switch to a smaller or children’s toothbrush. If you are still unable to brush your teeth, use a mild alcohol-free mouthwash. However, this should not replace proper dental care in the long term, but can be helpful for a short period of time.
Prevention & treatment
- Many dental treatments and professional teeth cleaning are possible during pregnancy. Ask your doctor for advice on what is possible.
- Medication may be necessary for pain or during treatment. Many medications are also safe during pregnancy. Ask your doctor for advice on the use of medication during pregnancy.
Nutrition
- Avoid sugar and make sure you eat a healthy diet. This is also important for dental health during pregnancy.
- Chew gum. Chewing gum stimulates your saliva flow, which helps to neutralize an elevated pH value in the mouth. This prevents the development of tooth decay.
Gums and teeth are particularly sensitive and at risk during pregnancy. To protect yourself from inflammation and negative effects on your unborn child, you should maintain good oral hygiene and always have any problems checked out by a doctor.
