Pregnancy brings a lot of changes—some exciting, some unexpected. One area that sometimes gets overlooked? Your teeth and gums. Hormonal shifts can affect your mouth in surprising ways, making dental care even more important while expecting.
At Abidin and Cao DDS in Westerville, OH, Dr. Sean Abidin and Dr. Vanessa Cao work with many expectant mothers who want to keep their smiles healthy without added stress. Here’s what you should know about oral care during pregnancy.
What is Pregnancy Gingivitis?
Thanks to hormone fluctuations, your gums may become more sensitive during pregnancy. You might notice swelling, tenderness, or bleeding—especially while brushing or flossing. This is called pregnancy gingivitis, and it’s very common.
While it typically improves after your baby is born, it can still cause discomfort and make gums more vulnerable. Many insurance plans even cover an extra dental cleaning during pregnancy for this reason. Regular visits and good home habits can help keep things calm and prevent further irritation.
Can You Get Dental Work While Pregnant?
In most cases, yes—especially if it helps relieve pain or prevent infection. Routine cleanings and exams are safe and encouraged during pregnancy. Dental X-rays are considered safe as well, even during pregnancy, due to the extremely low exposure and precise targeting of modern equipment.
If you need a filling or other dental procedure, the second trimester is typically the most comfortable time. Dr. Abidin and Dr. Cao can coordinate with your OB-GYN if needed to ensure timing and treatment are appropriate.
Changes in Taste or Smell
During pregnancy, many people experience a heightened sense of smell or strange changes in taste. One common complaint is a metallic taste that seems to come out of nowhere—even when you haven’t eaten anything metallic. This can make certain foods, drinks, or even toothpaste hard to tolerate.
While it’s not harmful, it can be annoying. Sipping cold water, chewing sugar-free gum, or switching to a different toothpaste flavor can help. These symptoms usually fade as pregnancy progresses.
Pregnancy Tumors: What Are They?
Despite the alarming name, pregnancy tumors (also called pyogenic granulomas) are not cancerous. They’re small, red growths that can appear on the gums—usually between teeth. They often show up in the second trimester and may bleed easily when brushing or flossing.
They’re caused by hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the gums. Most go away after delivery, but if one becomes painful or affects eating, Dr. Abidin or Dr. Cao can discuss safe treatment options.
Protecting Teeth From Morning Sickness
Frequent vomiting from morning sickness can expose your teeth to stomach acid, which weakens enamel. Brushing immediately afterward might feel like the right move, but it can actually do more harm than good. When enamel is softened by acid, brushing too soon can wear it down even more.
Instead, rinse with water or a mixture of water and baking soda to help neutralize the acid. Wait about 30 minutes before brushing, so enamel has time to recover. Staying hydrated and eating small, frequent meals may also reduce nausea and lessen the impact on your teeth.
Tips for Maintaining Oral Health While Expecting
Stick to twice-daily brushing and daily flossing: Keep up your normal routine to protect enamel and gums.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to minimize gum irritation: Gentle brushing is best if your gums are tender or swollen.
Drink water often, especially if morning sickness leads to dry mouth: Hydration helps protect against decay and discomfort.
Don’t skip your dental visits—they’re more important than ever: Regular checkups help prevent small problems from becoming big ones.
Gentle, Comprehensive Care During Pregnancy at Abidin And Cao DDS in Westerville, OH
At Abidin and Cao DDS in Westerville, Dr. Abidin and Dr. Cao understand the unique dental needs that come with pregnancy. They offer gentle, customized care to help protect your health—and your baby’s—at every step.
If you’re expecting, call our office to schedule a checkup. It’s one less thing to worry about, and a great way to support your overall wellness.