I’m pregnant! What’s happening to my gums?

IMAGINE holding your beautiful newborn for the first time. You’re doing everything possible to keep your baby safe and healthy — from regular doctor visits and ultrasounds to eating right and avoiding harmful substances. But are you remembering to visit your dentist? Yes, your dentist! It may seem surprising, but dental care is just as important during pregnancy as any other prenatal check-up.

Why pregnant women need extra dental care

Did you know that 60 to 75 per cent of pregnant women experience gingivitis? That’s a big word for inflamed gums, which become red, swollen, and even bleed when you brush or floss. This isn’t just something dentists say to scare you; these numbers come straight from the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

To put it simply, if I see 20 pregnant women in a day, between 12 and 15 will have gingivitis. So the odds of you having gum problems during pregnancy are pretty high. But don’t worry; there’s a reason this happens and ways to manage it.

What’s happening to your gums?

When you’re pregnant, your body goes through many hormonal changes. One important hormone, progesterone, increases blood flow to your gums, making them more sensitive, swollen, and prone to bleeding. These hormones also help bad bacteria in your mouth to grow faster, and this may contribute to gum issues.

Sometimes, the swelling can be so bad that you might even see a small red lump on your gums —this is called a pregnancy tumour. Don’t panic! It’s usually harmless and goes away after you have your baby.

Gum disease and your baby’s health

Here’s something very important: untreated gum disease can affect your baby’s health as gingivitis can worsen into something called periodontitis. Research shows that severe gum disease is linked to premature births. This means your baby could be born too early, which brings its own risks. Taking care of your gums isn’t just about you—it’s about your baby’s health, too.

Dealing with morning sickness

Pregnancy significantly affects your oral health in several ways. Beyond the risks of gingivitis, which affects both you and your child, you may experience morning sickness, especially in the first few months. If you’re throwing up often, that acid weakens your teeth and makes you more likely to get cavities.

Here’s a tip: After vomiting, don’t rush to brush your teeth right away. Wait about an hour. Instead, rinse your mouth with tap water or a mix of water and baking soda. Baking soda helps reduce acidity, protecting your teeth from damage.

When to visit the dentist

If you’re planning to get pregnant, it’s best to handle the more complex dental treatments beforehand. But we all know life doesn’t always go as planned. If you’re already pregnant and need dental care, the best time for non-urgent treatments is during your second trimester (months four to six). Always tell your dentist or dental hygienist that you’re pregnant. They’ll avoid X-rays and won’t prescribe any medications that could harm your baby.

Daily dental care tips for expecting moms

Follow these simple steps to keep your smile healthy during pregnancy:

•Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste using the correct brushing technique: hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, use gentle circular motions to clean all tooth surfaces, and ensure to brush your tongue.

•Floss daily, preferably before bed.

•After morning sickness, rinse with water or a baking soda solution before brushing.

•Maintain a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables.

Make dental visits part of your prenatal care

Just like visits to your gynaecologist, a visit to the dentist is essential. Don’t let dental care be an afterthought. It’s a key part of keeping you and your baby healthy.

Remember, taking care of your mouth during pregnancy means giving your little one the best start possible. And who doesn’t want to smile bright when welcoming their precious newborn?

Shanequa Morgan is a registered dental hygienist who practices in Montego Bay.

Shanequa Morgan