NEED TO KNOW

• Your saliva changes in pregnancy, which makes you more likely to get cavities. “The main salivary changes in pregnancy involve its flow (there’s more of it), composition, and pH and hormone levels,” explains Dr Abdurahman. Progesterone decreases the pH of saliva, and the increased acidity speeds up the dissolving of the (already compromised) tooth. Other changes alter the natural defence mechanisms of the teeth and create conditions that allow bacteria to flourish. • Plaque control is crucial in pregnancy. Plaque formation can lead to periodontal disease and research shows a link between this and preterm low birth weight. Recent research, published by the Journal of Periodontology, suggests that visiting an oral hygienist or dentist cuts the risks of preterm or low-weight birth by a third. It showed severe gum infections cause an increase in the production of chemicals which induce labour. Consider switching to an electric toothbrush as they remove more plaque. • Morning sickness leading to vomiting in your first trimester, and heartburn in your third trimester, could harm your teeth. “The gastric acids in the vomit or reflux can erode the enamel on the inner surface of the teeth, most commonly the front teeth,” says Dr Abdurahman. “If you are vomiting frequently, rinse your mouth thoroughly afterwards with a solution that contains sodium bicarbonate. This neutralises the acids and it prevents the damage.” If you find you are gagging when brushing, use a smaller toothbrush for the back of your teeth. • Pregnancy gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, is common. It can make your gums appear redder or swollen, and they may bleed a little when brushing. “Because of the increased blood flow to your gums, they have a tendency to be more irritable,” says Dr Abdurahman. Prevent, or treat it, by sticking to good oral hygiene. You know the drill: brush twice a day, floss once a day, and don’t skip seeing your oral hygienist for a good cleanse. • “Pregnancy tumours” can form on your gums. They usually appear as little lumps near the upper gum line that bleed and crust over and can be quite uncomfortable. “They are caused by plaque, gum irritation and because of the increased vessel growth that happens during pregnancy,” says Dr Abdurahman. “They will regress after the birth.” • Your teeth may get loose. Tooth mobility may increase during late pregnancy because of changes to the fleshy tissue between the tooth and tooth socket that holds the tooth in place. • Avoid tooth whitening kits or procedures. Dr Abdurahman says: “Whitening toothpastes are considered safer because they are mainly stain reducing and do not rely on bleaching agents.”