From Pregnancy to Post-Birth: Your Mouth Through the Journey

In this guide, we’re exploring the changes you can expect to experience in your body – and in your mouth. Armed with this information, you’ll be in the best possible position to take care of your oral health.

Oral health and pregnancy

During pregnancy, your hormones fluctuate and this can change the way that your body responds to bacteria in the mouth. If you already have plaque deposits on your teeth, you might find that your gums become more inflamed. You could also find that you start to suffer from gum disease for the first time.

This can be linked to a condition called gestational diabetes, which is a type of diabetes that only impacts you while you are pregnant. This can lead to higher levels of glucose in saliva, which can contribute to higher bacteria levels in the mouth.

Morning sickness can also impact your oral health. This can introduce stomach acid to your mouth, which will attack the enamel and can lead to tooth decay.

Finally, you may have pregnancy cravings that are more likely to contribute to tooth decay. This is more likely if you crave things that are high in sugar or starch, or if you have cravings at strange times, such as during the night. It can be harder to care for your teeth if you are always snacking between meals or eating at strange times.

Oral health in early parenthood

After your child is born, you’ll experience further changes in hormones that can contribute to changes in your oral health. You might also find that your usual pattern of brushing your teeth twice a day is disrupted by the arrival of a baby. It can be difficult to stick to a schedule when you are caring for a newborn.

Dental checkups may also be more difficult as parents tend to minimise their own needs and neglect their self care during this time. Remember that NHS dental care is free during pregnancy and for the first year after birth, so it makes sense to make the most of this opportunity.

Following the birth of your child, keep a close eye on your diet and try to prepare fresh and nutritional food where possible. It’s common for new parents to rely on fast and easy options, which are often high in calories and more likely to damage your teeth. 

You should also try to stay hydrated, as this will help to keep your gums healthy while also clearing out food debris from your mouth. New parents will often forget to drink water, so try making things easier by keeping a large water bottle by your side. Dry mouth is a common postpartum condition, and you can address this by staying hydrated and chewing sugar-free chewing gum.

Finally, sleep is essential for good oral health. Although this might not be under your control until your child develops a sleep schedule, try to prioritise rest and sleep wherever possible. Keep phones out of the bedroom so that you don’t slip into the habit of scrolling instead of sleeping.

If you’re worried about any aspect of your oral health during pregnancy or postpartum, book an appointment for a checkup. It’s essential that you are still able to prioritise your own care, even when you have a small baby to care for.