Prioritizing perinatal dental checkups is key to protecting your oral health—learn how Nanaimo Smiles helps prevent periodontal disease for a healthier pregnancy in Nanaimo, BC.
Pregnancy is a time of exciting changes, and while you’re focused on the health of your soon-to-arrive little one, it is more important than ever to take care of yourself—and that includes your oral health. During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations increase the risk of gum inflammation and periodontal disease, but proactive dental care can help maintain optimal oral health throughout all trimesters.
As your Nanaimo family dentist, our dental team is here to support you every step of the way, offering simple tips and advice to help you maintain your oral health—no matter what stage of life you’re in. Here’s what changes should be made to your oral health during pregnancy.
Why does pregnancy affect dental health?
Pregnancy brings significant hormonal changes that can impact your dental health, increasing the risk of conditions like pregnancy gingivitis, cavities, and gum disease. Higher levels of estrogen and progesterone can make your gums more sensitive to plaque, leading to inflammation and bleeding, while morning sickness and dietary changes may contribute to enamel erosion and tooth decay.
At Nanaimo Smiles, we provide specialized perinatal dental checkups to help expectant parents maintain optimal oral health, reducing the risk of complications like periodontal disease, which has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight. Staying proactive with regular cleanings and good oral hygiene can keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout pregnancy.
- Pregnancy Gingivitis and Gum Sensitivity
Hormonal shifts can cause pregnancy gingivitis, leading to swollen, red, and easily bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing. Increased blood flow can also make your gums more sensitive to plaque buildup. Regular cleanings at Nanaimo Smiles and a consistent oral hygiene routine can help manage inflammation and prevent further complications. - Increased Risk of Cavities
Pregnancy-related changes in saliva composition, combined with cravings for sugary and acidic foods, can make teeth more vulnerable to decay. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and scheduling perinatal routine dental checkups in Nanaimo can help protect your teeth from cavities during pregnancy. - Acid Erosion from Morning Sickness
Frequent vomiting due to morning sickness can expose teeth to stomach acids, weakening enamel over time. To minimize damage, rinse with water or a fluoride mouthwash after vomiting and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to prevent further enamel erosion. - Dry Mouth and Oral Discomfort
Hormonal fluctuations and dehydration can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth, which increases the risk of cavities and gum infections. Staying hydrated, chewing sugar-free gum, and using a saliva-boosting mouthwash can help maintain moisture and oral health. - Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy Risks
If pregnancy gingivitis progresses, it can develop into periodontal gum disease, which has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight. Maintaining routine dental visits in Nanaimo ensures early detection and treatment, helping to safeguard both maternal and infant health.
Is it safe to visit the dentist during pregnancy?
The short answer is yes—it’s not only safe to visit your Nanaimo dentist during pregnancy, it’s actually really important for your overall health and the health of your baby! Your Nanaimo dentist and dental hygienists are here to help navigate your perinatal oral health. During the entirety of your pregnancy and beyond, our dental team will make slight adjustments to your oral care to better suit your changing needs. Typically, this means a stronger focus on hygiene and preventative measures to ensure your comfort and safety and avoid longer visits in the dental chair.
Are dental X-rays safe during pregnancy?
According to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA),, “Pregnant patients requiring essential and/or emergency treatment should receive the minimum number of radiographs needed for diagnostic purposes. ” However, we recommend deferring elective procedures until after pregnancy.
To ensure safety, we use a lead apron to shield your abdomen and thyroid. Modern dental X-rays emit minimal radiation, and most focus only on the treatment area, limiting exposure. At Nanaimo Smiles, we also use the NOMAD™ X-ray, a portable device with a focused beam that further reduces radiation. This system allows our dental assistants to remain in the operatory, providing a more comfortable and reassuring experience for patients. Always consult your family doctor and/or obstetrician—your healthcare providers can help you weigh the risks and benefits based on your specific situation.
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How often should I go to the dentist when pregnant?
If you typically schedule your dental cleanings every six months, you may want to consider increasing the frequency of visits to every three months throughout your pregnancy into your post-natal care due to the increased risk of oral health concerns caused from your changing hormones. With the second trimester typically being the most comfortable for expectant mothers, this in particular is a good time for a longer dental cleaning. During the first trimester, you might experience nausea or fatigue, and in the third trimester, you may have difficulty lying on your back for extended periods. At Nanaimo Smiles, we offer state-of-the-art technology and extra comforts such as blankets and pillows to help ease discomfort during your dental cleanings. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to speak to our team ahead of your dental cleaning.
Related Reading: Oral Health Care for the Pregnant Patient
How can I prevent teeth damage during pregnancy?
Maintaining good dental health during pregnancy in Nanaimo is essential for preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel erosion. Follow these expert tips to protect your teeth and gums throughout pregnancy:
- Brush and Floss Daily – Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and reduce the risk of pregnancy gingivitis, which is more common due to hormonal changes.
- Use Fluoride Mouthwash – If you experience morning sickness or dry mouth, rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash can help strengthen enamel and wash away harmful acids.
- Stay Hydrated – Drinking plenty of water helps neutralize acids, wash away food particles, and combat dry mouth, a common pregnancy symptom.
- Eat a Balanced Diet – Limiting sugary and acidic foods can reduce the risk of cavities and enamel erosion. Opt for nutrient-rich foods that support oral and overall health.
- Manage Morning Sickness – If you experience vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or fluoride mouthwash immediately after to neutralize stomach acids. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid weakening your enamel.
For personalized prenatal dental care in Nanaimo, schedule a checkup at Nanaimo Smiles to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout pregnancy.
Is it safe to do teeth whitening while pregnant?
With the many physiological changes that occur during pregnancy, some individuals may consider teeth whitening to maintain a bright smile. However, due to the lack of conclusive research on the safety of whitening agents during pregnancy, dental professionals generally recommend postponing these treatments until after childbirth.
While no studies have definitively linked hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide—common active ingredients in whitening products—to adverse effects during pregnancy, the long-term safety of these chemicals has not been fully established. Given this uncertainty, it is advisable to err on the side of caution and avoid elective whitening treatments during pregnancy.
For those seeking natural alternatives, maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine with fluoride toothpaste, consuming fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, and staying hydrated can help minimize staining and support overall dental health during pregnancy.
If you have concerns about tooth discoloration, discuss them at your next Nanaimo dental checkup. Your Nanaimo dentist can provide guidance on safe options to maintain a healthy smile while prioritizing your oral health during pregnancy, while determining the best treatment plan post pregnancy.
Why are my gums bleeding during pregnancy?
Bleeding gums during pregnancy are a common concern caused by hormonal changes that increase gum sensitivity and inflammation. Elevated progesterone and estrogen levels can make gum tissue more prone to plaque buildup, leading to pregnancy gingivitis—a condition that causes red, swollen gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing.
While pregnancy gingivitis is temporary, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent it from progressing into periodontal disease, which has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight. At Nanaimo Smiles, we recommend the following to keep your gums healthy throughout pregnancy:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste using a soft-bristled toothbrush to minimize irritation.
- Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth and along the gumline.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended by your Nanaimo dentist.
- Schedule a professional cleaning at our Nanaimo dental clinic to remove plaque and reduce inflammation.
If you notice persistent swelling, excessive bleeding, or signs of gum disease, visiting your Nanaimo dental clinic for a checkup can help prevent complications. At Nanaimo Smiles, we provide comprehensive prenatal dental care, ensuring your oral health remains a priority throughout pregnancy.
Perinatal and Infant Oral Health | Nanaimo, BC Dentist
Taking care of your dental health during pregnancy is a simple way to look after yourself and your baby. If you have any questions about your dental health during pregnancy and/or would like to book in your next visit to our Nanaimo dental clinic, please do not hesitate to contact our team.