During pregnancy the mother’s body undergoes hormonal changes that may trigger fatigue, nausea and vomiting in the first trimester of pregnancy. Pregnant women may also crave unusual foods, which can increase their risk of developing cavities.

It is recommended that expectant mothers see the dentist for cleaning and scaling early in their pregnancy, and maintain excellent dental care habits thereafter.

Remember

Pregnant women should let the dentist know about their condition, so that only the necessary x-rays are taken, particularly in the first trimester when the fetus is sensitive to radiation. Any other type of dental treatment should be carried out during the second trimester.

Local anesthetic during dental treatment poses no threat to the fetus, regardless of the stage of development.

Expectant women with gum disease are up to seven times more likely to have premature or underweight infants as women with healthy gums.

Pregnancy gingivitis

Hormonal changes make the gums more sensitive to inflammation and may cause an acute gingival response, commonly called pregnancy gingivitis. It is characterized by red, swollen gums.

Women with dental plaque are at greater risk, and so should have their teeth cleaned professionally at the start of their pregnancy.