The top priority for (expectant) mothers is the well-being of their baby, and this means they must take particular care of themselves. Under no circumstances should they neglect their dental care. An increasing number of scientists agree that oral health and general health are linked. Due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, the requirements for dental care may also change under certain circumstances.
Firstly, pregnant women are more susceptible to plaque build-up due to the hormonal changes the body undergoes during pregnancy. If plaque is not thoroughly removed, it can lead to tooth decay and/or gum inflammation, and subsequently to periodontitis. Studies suggest that pregnant women with untreated gum inflammation are at an increased risk of miscarriage. This is therefore a good reason to pay even closer attention to oral hygiene during pregnancy.
Due to increased oestrogen production, the gums receive a greater blood supply, which can lead to bleeding gums. Furthermore, saliva becomes more acidic during pregnancy and is therefore more likely to attack the protective tooth enamel.
Before pregnancy
If you are planning to have a baby and are actively trying to conceive, dental care can be incorporated directly into your plans to minimise the risk of oral diseases during pregnancy.
It is best to speak to your dentist before you become pregnant. This will allow any existing problems to be treated in advance. Among other things, your dentist will examine your gums for swelling or bleeding and check for untreated tooth decay, cavities, lesions on the mucous membranes or possible signs of infection or trauma.
Your dentist will advise you on what to bear in mind regarding dental care during pregnancy and will also make personalised recommendations based on your dental history. This means you’ll be prepared in advance for any potential dental problems and can take immediate action should any arise.
During pregnancy
As soon as the happy news is confirmed, there are a few things you’ll need to bear in mind to ensure your own health and that of your baby, so that you can enjoy a happy and healthy pregnancy. When it comes to your oral care, there are a number of things you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy. After a positive pregnancy test, you should book another appointment with your dentist, as some time may have passed since your last check-up before you became pregnant.
Please take particular care to maintain thorough oral hygiene. Brush your teeth regularly, at least twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush. It’s best to change your toothbrush a little more often to ensure that not too many germs build up on the bristles. With special antibacterial toothbrushes, you don’t need to worry about this. The gold or silver coating on the bristles prevents bacteria from accumulating on the brush. Toothpastes developed for pregnant women, with or without fluoride, contain ingredients such as aloe vera, tannins or amino acids, which are designed to meet the specific oral hygiene needs during pregnancy.
If you’re suffering from nausea, please make sure you don’t brush your teeth straight after vomiting, but do rinse your mouth thoroughly to prevent your stomach acid from damaging your tooth enamel. If you absolutely cannot go without brushing your teeth, rinse your mouth out particularly thoroughly.
A healthy diet is particularly important for healthy teeth and, overall, key to your baby’s health. Avoid foods containing refined sugar. Of course, a slice of cake or the occasional sweet treat isn’t forbidden, but a vitamin-rich diet consisting of vegetables, fruit and grains is generally recommended. Discuss with your gynaecologist whether your diet is providing you and your baby with essential nutrients such as folic acid.
After the birth
Once the baby arrives, your world is turned upside down. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t forget everything else and should always remember to look after yourself and your own health. After all, this benefits your little one too. Dental care, in particular, should not be neglected. Pregnancy may have affected your oral flora more than you realise.
Continue to visit the dentist regularly and ask when you should start looking after your baby’s oral hygiene. At the very latest when the first teeth start to appear, you should ensure you have the right baby dental care products at home.