1. Looking After Your Teeth Before and During Pregnancy

Before You Become Pregnant
If you are trying for a baby then you probably want to be in the very best of health, but it's easy to overlook the need to take extra care of your teeth and gums. We recommend that women trying to become pregnant schedule a full checkup and professional cleaning with us first, just so we can make sure you don't need any dental treatment. If you do require any dental treatment then it's better to have it done before becoming pregnant, and to try to avoid having any dental treatment during pregnancy. This is especially important during the first trimester and the second half of the third trimester, although routine dental care can be carried out during the second trimester.

During Your Pregnancy
It’s essential to look after your teeth during your pregnancy, as hormonal changes can affect your oral health, especially your gums. You might notice your gums becoming tender, and they may look red and puffy. This is because your gums become more sensitive to plaque bacteria in a condition known as "pregnancy gingivitis," and this condition can develop any time between the second and eighth months of pregnancy. You can alleviate the risk of this condition by being extra vigilant about your daily oral hygiene routine, and should continue flossing even if it makes your gums bleed slightly. We'll want to see you at regular intervals to monitor any changes to your oral health, and we might recommend you have extra professional cleanings during your pregnancy if we think you are at risk of developing this problem.
Another condition which sometimes occurs during pregnancy is known as "pregnancy tumors," and this creates small swellings or growths on the gums in between the teeth. This condition is purely temporary and the swellings should clear up once you have had your baby. Morning sickness is another common problem, and it's worth making sure you always have a toothbrush, toothpaste and a small bottle of mouthwash with you to help you freshen up after a bout of sickness. Some pregnant women also suffer from a condition called dysgeusia as the pregnancy causes their taste buds to change, creating a permanent bad taste in the mouth. Brushing frequently can help alleviate this symptom.

Once Your Baby Is Born
Once you have had your baby please do drop in to see us, especially when your baby’s first tooth erupts. This is the perfect moment to schedule their very first dental checkup, and to set them on the path for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.