What's Changed With My Teeth During Pregnancy?
Keeping your teeth clean is so important and even more so during pregnancy.
Pregnancy can affect your gums and saliva production which can cause the following:
- Increased build up of plaque
- wobbly, loose teeth
- inflamed gums or gum disease – see gums for more information.
What Causes Problems with Teeth During Pregnancy?
- Pregnancy hormones change saliva production, reducing the acidity of saliva which normally attacks plaque build up and bacteria. Which means you could have a lot more bacteria in your mouth during pregnancy.
- The increased level of blood in a pregnant body (up to 50% increased blood volume) causes the gums to soften which leads to teeth slightly loosening or wobbling.
Recommendations For Looking After Your Teeth During Pregnancy
- Brush your teeth regularly, at least twice a day.
- Visit the dentist to get your oral hygiene checked – be sure to inform your dentist that you are pregnant.
- Make flossing between your teeth into a daily routine.
- Carry toothpicks in your handbag – very useful for soft gums. Getting food stuck between your teeth can be very irritating.