Brushing

Daily dental care is just as important as maintaining your routine dental appointments during pregnancy. Brushing for 2 minutes every morning and night with a soft-bristle toothbrush will help remove plaque buildup. Use a fluoridated toothpaste. Your dental provider can recommend one if you have questions about which toothpaste to use.

The proper brushing technique is to angle the bristles toward the gum line and brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth thoroughly. Brush your tongue to prevent bad breath and bacterial buildup. Be sure to replace your toothbrush every three months, and after being sick.

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Flossing and Mouthwash

Floss between your teeth at least once per day. Flossing can help clean between your teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach. It is the most frequent area where cavities begin to form!

A Mouthwash (also called mouthrinse) may be a helpful addition to your daily dental hygiene routine. It can help reduce plaque buildup, prevent or reduce gingivitis (an early stage of gum disease), and slow the formation of tartar (hardened plaque) on the teeth. Make sure to use a mouthrinse with the ADA Seal of Approval.

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Signs of Pregnancy Gingivitis

Pregnant women experience elevated hormone levels that can cause the gums to respond differently to the bacteria in plaque. In many cases, this can cause a temporary condition known as pregnancy gingivitis.

Pregnancy gingivitis (also known as swollen gums) is an inflammation of the gums. Swollen gums during pregnancy may be sore and more susceptible to bleeding.

If you experience:

  • Tender/sore gums
  • Bad breath or bad taste that will not go away
  • Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing (even while maintaining good daily habits)

This may be a sign of pregnancy gingivitis. Contact your dentist if swelling and irritation worsen during your pregnancy.

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Signs of Gum Tumors

Along with bleeding gums during pregnancy, you may notice new, large lumps on your gums that have formed. Most commonly, they occur on the top six front teeth, on the gum that lies between the teeth.

After delivering the baby, monitor the size of the gum tumors; most shrink/completely disappear on their own, but it is possible that your dental provider will need to remove them.

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Signs of Cavities

In between routine dental visits, it is useful to perform regular visual inspections of your teeth. When signs of moderate to severe tooth decay are visible, such as the ones listed below, it is wise to schedule a visit with your dental provider.

  • White and brown spots on your teeth are early signs of cavities.
  • Black spots and holes in your teeth are signs of moderate to severe tooth decay.
  • Sensitivity to foods high in sugar.
  • Pain near your ear or the bottom of your jaw.

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Signs of Teeth Grinding

Have you ever woken up with jaw pain, sensitive teeth, a headache, or the feeling that your teeth aren’t as smooth as they used to be?

You may be clenching or grinding your teeth. Inform your dentist of these signs so they can provide or recommend a preventive device, such as a night guard, to protect your teeth.

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