Ah, the thrill of expecting a little bundle of joy—it’s a magical journey filled with anticipation and, let’s face it, a checklist longer than a giraffe’s neck! From watching the cravings to staying hydrated and steering clear of the no-nos, there’s a ton on that to-do list. 

But hey, amidst the excitement, let’s not forget something crucial—your smile! Join us as we dive into why maintaining your oral health during pregnancy is as important as picking out cute baby onesies.

Pregnancy-related dental changes for expectant moms.

Those mighty hormones—the unsung heroes of pregnancy! Progesterone and estrogen, the dynamic duo, are crucial for a healthy journey to motherhood. Yet, as they waltz through the body, creating magic for the baby, they can also throw a dental curveball, or two.

Surely, you’ve heard of mood swings, and you’ve probably had one at some time, pregnancy-related or not. When it happens during pregnancy, however, you can blame it on the hormonal tango. 

Until the body gets used to the hormone hikes, expectant moms might find themselves on an emotional rollercoaster. But wait, there’s more. Enter morning sickness, the not-so-charming sidekick. Sure, it’s rough on the esophagus, but your pearly whites? They’re not spared, either. The stomach acid from morning sickness can be a real enamel-wrecker.

Now, let’s talk dental specifics. Ever heard of pregnancy gingivitis? It’s like regular gingivitis’s mischievous cousin, fueled by those elevated hormone levels. Estrogen and progesterone are critical for your baby’s development, but they also play havoc with your gums, causing a surge in inflammation. It’s like a hormonal parade, and sometimes your gums are caught in the midst of the celebration. 

Oral care tips for expectant mothers. 

Let’s talk about keeping that pregnancy glow in your smile! Here’s a handy guide to ensure your pearly whites shine through those exciting nine months:

• Regular brushing and flossing: Brushing and flossing regularly work wonders in keeping plaque at bay and maintaining those sparkling teeth and healthy gums.
• Combat morning sickness: If brushing becomes a battle due to morning sickness, fear not. Use antacids or rinse your mouth with a mix of one teaspoon baking soda in one cup of water. It helps neutralize acid and keeps your enamel safe.
• Don’t skip dental checkups: Pregnancy might throw a few curveballs, but your dental checkup isn’t one to miss. Hormonal changes put you at a higher risk for issues, like periodontal disease and pregnancy gingivitis, making regular dental evaluations more critical than ever.
• Safe dental treatments: Good news—according to the American Dental Association, preventive, diagnostic, and restorative dental treatments are all safe during pregnancy. Even local anesthetics with epinephrine are deemed safe, offering you peace of mind in your journey toward a healthy smile.

Nutritional considerations for expectant moms.

When you’re expecting, your physician will recommend that you focus on certain nutrients: protein, iron, folic acid, iodine, and choline. But the supporting cast is just as critical—enter calcium, vitamin D, potassium, and fiber. Smart food choices contribute to a healthy pregnancy and lay the foundation for a healthy little one.

Let’s fill your plate with goodness that nourishes both you and your teeth:

• Calcium: Indulge in pasteurized dairy delights like yogurt, cow’s milk, and hard cheeses. But the fun doesn’t stop there—almonds, broccoli, and garbanzo beans join the party, supporting the development of those tiny bones and teeth.
• Vitamin C: Oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli—these vibrant choices not only boost your baby’s growth but also enhance iron absorption. It’s like a nutrient tag team for you and your little one.
• Iron: Beans, lentils, green leafy veggies, meat, and spinach—they’re not just foods; they’re the iron-rich army-building blood, for both you and your baby.
• Omega-3: Whether you savor the sea with sardines, salmon, trout, or opt for canned light tuna, these omega-3 wonders support brain development. If fish isn’t your go-to, a prenatal supplement with omega-3s ensures you don’t miss the nutritional boat.

Handling Pregnancy Gingivitis

One of the not-so-glamorous sides of pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it’s a tag along for 60% to 75% of expectant moms, making its presence known through various gum-related changes. 

Watch out for these signs:

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Redness
• Shiny gum surface
• Swelling
• Tenderness

And, just to keep you on your toes, bad breath might join the party, lingering even after your diligent brushing sessions. Brace yourself, as symptoms may increase during the second trimester, sticking around for the entire pregnancy.

Regular dental cleanings can help tackle plaque buildup and reduce gum inflammation during this exciting time in your life. Your at-home allies include the classics: brushing twice daily, daily flossing, and a warm saltwater rinse gargle. If the battle gets intense, your dentist might call in reinforcements like oral antibiotics or a prescription mouthwash. 

Compass Dental Group is here to support expectant mothers with their oral health.

Don’t let pregnancy gingivitis steal the spotlight. Look for signs, like bleeding, redness, shiny gums, swelling, and tenderness. Your radiant smile deserves center stage, and prioritizing oral health is key. 

When visiting us at Maryville Dental Care (aka Compass Dental Group), we understand the importance of maintaining oral health during pregnancy. With our expertise in general dentistry, we encourage expectant mothers to embrace regular dental checkups, cleanings, and at-home care. A healthy smile isn’t just a cosmetic delight—it contributes to a healthier pregnancy and a healthier baby. So, let your smile shine through this incredible journey, illuminating the path to a joyous and vibrant motherhood.

Request an appointment for a dental cleaning today.