Hormones and increased blood volume during pregnancy can cause gums
to swell and possibly bleed when you brush. This can increase your
chance for infection, so good dental habits are more important now
than ever. Regular flossing and brushing can help to prevent gingivitis
and toughen your gums. If you become nauseous while brushing your
teeth, try using different toothpaste and avoid mouthwashes that
contain alcohol.
While you are pregnant, it is safe to continue with regularly
scheduled cleanings. Be sure to tell your dentist and his
staff that you are
pregnant, so they can take any necessary precautions during your
visit. If possible, postpone any dental work until after your first
twelve weeks. Local anesthesia for dental work is okay during pregnancy,
but it is best to avoid gas and general anesthesia.
If
you normally use at-home teeth whitening products, you may want
to discontinue use until after your pregnancy. Most
of these products
contain hydrogen peroxide or other whitening agents which can
be swallowed during the whitening process, and it isn’t
well-documented how these substances can affect a growing
fetus. Tooth whiteners
also may increase irritation to sensitive gums.
