Dentist Oakleigh :: Vomiting During Pregnancy Can Damage Teeth
Gastric reflux (regurgitating food or drink) or the vomiting associated with morning sickness can bathe your teeth with strong stomach acids. Repeated reflux and vomiting can damage tooth enamel and increase the risk of decay.
To minimise this damage suggestions include:
- Do not brush your teeth immediately after vomiting. While the teeth are under acid attack, the vigorous action of the toothbrush can remove the tooth enamel.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with plain tap water.
- Follow up with a fluoridated mouthwash.
- If you don’t have a fluoridated mouthwash, a dab of fluoridated toothpaste can be smeared over your teeth.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
- Brush your teeth an hour after vomiting.
Food cravings while pregnant
Some women experience unusual food cravings while they are pregnant. A regular desire for sugary snacks may increase your risk of tooth decay. Try to snack on low-sugar foods instead.
If nothing but sweetness will satisfy your craving, try to choose healthier options such as fresh fruits. Rinse your mouth with water or milk, or brush your teeth after having sugary snacks.
Pregnancy and gum problems:
Research has found a link between gum disease in pregnant women and premature birth with low birth weight. Babies who are born prematurely may risk a range of health conditions.
Estimates suggest that up to 18 out of every 100 premature births may be triggered by periodontal disease, which is a chronic infection of the gums. Appropriate dental treatment for the expectant mother may reduce the risk of premature birth.
If you are planning on getting pregnant, it may be a good time to see your dentist or oral hygienist, to minimise your risk of gum diseases.
The hormones associated with pregnancy can make some women susceptible to gum problems including:
- Gingivitis (gum inflammation) – this is more likely to occur during the second trimester. Symptoms include swelling of the gums and bleeding, particularly during brushing and flossing between teeth
- Undiagnosed or untreated periodontal disease – pregnancy may worsen this chronic gum infection, which is caused by untreated gingivitis and can lead to tooth loss
- Pregnancy epulis or pyogenic granuloma– a localised enlargement or swelling of the gum, which can bleed easily. This may require additional professional cleaning and, rarely, excision. It can resolve once your baby is born
Gum Issues
During your pregnancy, the gum problems that occur are not due to increased plaque, but a more sever response to plaque as a result of increased hormone levels.
Consult Your Dentist
Tell your dentist about any gum problems that you might have. Switch to a softer toothbrush and brush your teeth regularly, at least twice every day. Use toothpaste that contains fluoride to help strengthen your teeth against decay.
After Birth
If you have had gum problems during pregnancy, it is important to get your gums checked by a dentist after you have given birth. While most types of gum problems caused by pregnancy hormones resolve after birth, a small number of women may have developed a deeper level of gum disease that will need treatment to resolve.
Clarinda Clinic - Dentist Oakleigh
If you are looking for a professional dentist to look after your dental needs whilst pregnant, Clarinda Clinic has the team to help. Clarinda Clinic has been serving the community of Clarinda, Clayton and Oakleigh for over 25 years, and we are dedicated to our patients health.