Pregnancy and Your Dental Health: What Every Mother-to-Be Should Know

Preparing for a new baby certainly takes a lot of personal care and planning. Although prenatal visits, your nutrition, and mental health are critical, so is your dental health.  

Pregnancy brings about unique changes in your body that affect your teeth and gums, which makes early dental care an essential part of a healthy pregnancy.

Dr. Nils H. Anderson and the team at Village Dental in Richmond Hill, Georgia, are prepared to support your dental health before, during, and after pregnancy. Read on to learn more about why your smile needs extra attention during this important time.

How pregnancy changes your mouth

Pregnancy hormones have a notable effect on your entire body, including your gums and oral tissues. These hormonal shifts can increase inflammation, allowing bacteria to build up. This raises your risk for periodontal disease.

Research links untreated gum disease to complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and pre-eclampsia. Early pregnancy dental visits are important for catching concerns before they become problems.

Quick tip: If you experience morning sickness, rinse your mouth with a mixture of water and baking soda to neutralize acid. Protect your enamel by waiting about 30 minutes before brushing.

Why your oral health affects your baby, too

Your dental health isn’t just about you. It affects your baby as well. Cavity-causing bacteria can be passed from mother to child, increasing your baby’s future risk of tooth decay.

Additionally, gum inflammation is common during pregnancy, impacting up to 75% of pregnant women. Regular dental visits help identify these changes early and support a healthier pregnancy overall.

Safe and effective dental care during pregnancy

The good news is that most dental treatments are perfectly safe to undergo during pregnancy. Cleanings, fillings, and evaluations can — and should — continue throughout all trimesters.

We can also perform more involved care, such as a root canal or an extraction, safely. Local anesthetics are considered low risk, and digital X-rays can be taken with proper shielding when necessary.

What to expect with your pregnancy dental plan

Your risk for oral issues increases during pregnancy, so maintaining your appointments is crucial. Regular checkups allow Dr. Anderson to adjust your treatment plan based on your trimester and address concerns early.

Village Dental prioritizes your safety by using pregnancy-appropriate anesthetics, protective imaging protocols, and a treatment approach tailored to your medical history and pregnancy needs.

Make your appointment today

Partner with us to protect your oral health and lower your risk of dental complications. With the right support, you can keep your smile healthy while nurturing your growing family.

Reach out to schedule a visit and let us help you maintain strong, healthy teeth throughout your pregnancy journey.