Oral hygiene

Oral hygiene in pregnancy: gums and teeth need extra care

By Philips

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01/09/2020

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2-5 min. read

During pregnancy, there are changes in the female body. The immune system, metabolism and hormone balance adapt to the requirements of pregnancy. Hormonal changes may also have an effect on oral health. In addition to bleeding gums, bad breath can also be a problem during pregnancy. Therefore, it is especially important to thoroughly care for teeth, gums and oral cavity during pregnancy. In this article, we briefly explain the links between pregnancy and bleeding gums and what you can do for your optimal oral health during pregnancy.

At a glance

Bleeding gums in pregnancy: causes and symptoms
Caries in pregnancy

Bleeding gums in pregnancy: causes and symptoms

In about half of all women, a so-called pregnancy gingivitis occurs during pregnancy. The reason for inflamed gums in pregnancy is the dilation of blood vessels due to hormonal changes. The hormones also change the nature of the oral mucosa and bacterial plaque can settle there more easily and lead to inflammation.

Pregnancy gingivitis and associated bleeding gums often occurs in the first three months of pregnancy.

Bad breath in pregnancy can have various causes. Usually it is an unpleasant side effect of gingivitis. Dentists therefore regularly recommend professional tooth cleaning during pregnancy to protect the teeth and gums from diseases.

Caries in pregnancy

Due to the hormonal change during pregnancy, the acidity of saliva is increased, which favors the development of caries. However, if you were not susceptible to caries before your pregnancy, you are unlikely to develop it during pregnancy.

To prevent tooth decay in pregnancy, avoid sweets as snacks, as these are additional acid attacks on your teeth. It is better to eat sugary food (if at all) with the main meals and brush your teeth half an hour afterwards.