When you’re expecting, most of your attention goes to your growing belly, ultrasound dates, vitamin schedules, and regular OB visits. What gets ignored? Your gums.
But here’s something every mother-to-be should know: your dental health has a direct connection to your pregnancy health.
In fact, research has shown that poor oral hygiene during pregnancy can increase the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and even infections in the mother.
Why does pregnancy affect dental health?
Pregnancy triggers hormonal changes — especially a rise in progesterone and estrogen — which can increase blood flow to the gums. This can cause the gums to become sensitive, swollen, or bleed easily, a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis.
Other common dental issues during pregnancy include:
- Gum inflammation
- Tooth decay (due to increased acid exposure from nausea)
- Gum abscesses
- Loose teeth (in rare cases, due to bone loss)
Unfortunately, most expecting mothers don’t associate gum bleeding or bad breath with anything serious — and that’s where the problem begins.
Why it matters to your baby
Untreated gum infections release bacteria into the bloodstream. These bacteria can travel to the uterus, triggering inflammation, which may lead to early labour.
In several international studies, mothers with untreated periodontal disease were more likely to deliver babies under 2.5 kg or before 37 weeks of gestation.
At our multispeciality hospital in Rajkot, we now include dental evaluations in our prenatal checklist, especially for patients reporting long-standing gum issues.
What should you do if you have a dental problem during pregnancy?
- Visit your dentist early in pregnancy. The second trimester (weeks 14–20) is generally considered the safest time for any dental treatment if needed.
- Let your doctor know before undergoing any dental procedures. Your doctor in Rajkotwill guide which medications, X-rays, or anesthetics are safe.
- In case dental surgery or infection management is required, your general surgeon in Rajkot or gynaecologist will work closely with the dental team to minimise any pregnancy-related risks.
Tips to keep your mouth healthy during pregnancy:
- Brush twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss gently at least once a day
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash
- Rinse your mouth after every episode of vomiting
- Avoid sugary snacks and drinks
- Book regular cleanings with your dentist
A message from Flowrence Hospital
Dental health is often the most forgotten piece of pregnancy care. At Flowrence, we don’t wait for pain to take action. We educate every mother early — because infections don’t wait for trimester boundaries.
As a trusted multispeciality hospital in Rajkot, we collaborate with experienced dental and surgical teams to ensure safe, informed care for every mother.
If you’re expecting and haven’t seen a dentist in a while — now is the time.
Let your doctor in Rajkot know about any discomfort, bleeding gums, or long-term dental issues. A few small checks now can prevent complications later.
