Why gums can change, why routine care still matters and what to tell the practice.
Pregnancy hormones can make gums more sensitive to plaque, so some people notice swelling or bleeding they have not had before. Morning sickness can also bring stomach acid into the mouth.
Keep the check-up
Routine dental care is generally considered safe during pregnancy, and many dentists suggest keeping the usual visit. Tell the practice you are pregnant and how far along, and bring a list of any medicines.
- Rinse with water after being sick, and wait a while before brushing
- Keep brushing gently where gums bleed
- Ask whether any treatment is better timed for later
- Mention any changes your midwife or doctor has noted
Tell the practice you are pregnant, even if the visit is only a cleaning.
After the baby arrives
The first months are busy, and check-ups slip. Booking your next visit before the birth makes it easier to keep.
This article is general information. It is not advice about your own teeth; ask a licensed dentist who has examined you.