During pregnancy, hormonal surges can have body-wide effects, many of which manifest in the mouth. Mothers-to-be may experience pregnancy gingivitis, in which the gums become irritated and swollen. Left untreated, the condition can progress into periodontitis. Luckily, this and other pregnancy-related dental issues are largely preventable with some home care techniques and input from your dentist. Here are a few ways you can maintain optimal dental health while expecting.

How to Beat Pregnancy-Related Oral Conditions

1. Prevent Tooth Erosion by Waiting to Brush

Morning sickness, which typically occurs during the first trimester, can cause nausea and vomiting. Although it may be tempting to brush your teeth directly after getting sick, dentists recommend waiting it out a bit. Vomiting can alter the pH balance in your mouth, and by brushing directly afterward, you may contribute to enamel erosion. Before brushing, use a rinse designed to control acidity.

2. Prevent Gingivitis by Upgrading Oral Hygiene

Minimize your risk for gingivitis by continuing to brush and floss throughout your pregnancy. In addition, let your dentist know about your pregnancy, so they can recommend any additional products or treatments to help prevent gum irritation. If you’ve had gingivitis in the past, they may suggest more frequent cleanings or using a specially formulated mouth rinse, for instance.

2. Eliminate Dry Mouth With Sugarless Gum

Dry mouth is a common complaint among pregnant women. While staying hydrated is an important way to aid in natural saliva production and maintain fetal health, you can also combat dryness by chewing sugar-free gum. Look for products with xylitol, which aid in reducing the bacteria that contribute to cavities.

As the trusted dentist’s office in Fairbanks, AK, Helmbrecht Dental provides top-notch oral care for patients during every phase of life. In addition to preventive services, they also offer restorative solutions to help you maintain a healthy smile you’re proud to show off. Browse through some of their treatments by visiting their website; or, call (907) 456-1237 to schedule an appointment.