It’s another one of those things most people don’t discuss about pregnancy. Chances are your gums will swell up, become tender, and bleed with even the lightest brush and floss. Worse than that, it makes you more prone to tooth decay and gingivitis. For most women, symptoms clear up shortly after giving birth but for a few it may actually get worse. Can't a mama get a break?

Oral Care in Pregnancy: What to Do

During your pregnancy, you ideally kept your regular cleanings and check-ups, and continued daily brushing and flossing. If you are like most busy women you certainly brushed, but may have forgotten to floss from time to time, and possibly skipped that last dental appointment.   Enough procrastinating; it’s time to make an appointment. You need a good deep cleaning for your teeth.

Why is this happening?

What is it about pregnancy that makes your gums and teeth so vulnerable? Your hormones of course. Progesterone causes blood vessels to dilate, which can lead to inflammation of the gums around your teeth. Swollen gums result in tight spaces for food particles to hide and the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. The result: potential gingivitis and, if left untreated, periodontitis.

Consequences of Ignoring Oral Care During Pregnancy

Gingivitis is reversible if treated promptly, but periodontitis a disease with some serious complications if ignored. Treatments are also much more invasive, ranging from antibiotics to surgery. Is that still not scary enough to get you scheduled for a seat in the chair? How about this: the bacteria that cause periodontal disease can travel through the bloodstream and affect more than just your mouth. Fighting those bacteria compromises your immune system, leaving you open to all sorts of issues. Forget about a less-than-sparkling smile, you could lose your teeth! Periodontal disease can also contribute to respiratory issues, stroke, heart disease and a low birth-weight baby if it occurs while you’re pregnant.

Unfortunately, the effects of those hormones won’t go away overnight either.  “You may continue to experience some swelling and bleeding for several months after giving birth as hormone levels take time to return to normal, particularly if you are breast feeding,” said Cynthia Wooter, a Registered Dental Hygienist in Charlottesville, Virginia. 

Be an Oral Health Role Model

We all want a beautiful smile, complete with pearly whites and a perfect set of chompers. It takes dedication to good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist’s office. Proper prevention and maintenance is always the answer to a pretty and healthy smile. Be a good role model for your little one – brush at least twice daily, floss every night before bed, get a regular checkup and see your dental hygienist as often as they recommend (frequency varies depending on your personal risk factors).

Your smile will shine on more than just your baby!

Tia O'Neill is a glamour diva turned new mom. She currently resides in Virginia with her husband and newborn son, Justice.