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Dental health during pregnancy

Why is dental care important during pregnancy?

Many women find that their oral health can get worse during pregnancy due to hormone changes. A study suggests that poor oral hygiene could have an impact on an unborn baby.

Brushing twice a day to remove plaque helps to keep the gums healthy. To keep your teeth and gums healthy or if your gums do bleed follow the guidance below;

  • Carry on brushing taking more care around the gum area
  • Get advice from your dentist or hygienist
  • As a guide you should use a small headed medium-soft toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. A very small brush may be better if you are suffering from nausea.
  • Fluoride toothpaste helps to make the tooth enamel stronger. It can stop the bacteria from making so much acid. Spit out any residue toothpaste but don’t rinse your mouth with water.
  • Using dental floss or inter-dental brushes will also help keep your gums healthy during pregnancy
  • Try your best to maintain a healthy diet
  • Quit smoking and gum disease

NHS dental treatment is free while you are pregnant and until your baby is one year old.

To find an NHS dentist in your area visit www.nhs.uk and type ‘find a dentist’ into the search box.