How Pregnancy Can Impact Your Teeth and Gums

Pregnancy changes a lot about your body, and your mouth is no exception. Shifting hormones can impact your teeth and gums more than you might expect.

At Soft Touch Dentistry in Brighton and Newton, Massachusetts, Dr. Nazila Bidabadi brings decades of clinical experience and more than 10 years as a Harvard clinical instructor. She leads our skilled specialists in periodontics and endodontics, and together they help women protect their oral health at every stage of life, including during pregnancy.

What Hormones Can Do to Your Gums

During pregnancy, your body produces higher levels of estrogen and progesterone. These hormones affect how your gums respond to plaque, which can lead to pregnancy gingivitis. You might notice that your gums feel swollen, tender, or bleed when you brush or floss. This can start as early as the first trimester and often peaks in the second.

Some women also develop small overgrowths along the gumline called pregnancy tumors. They’re not dangerous and usually go away after delivery, but they can feel uncomfortable or bleed easily.

Other Changes to Watch For

Morning sickness can wear down the enamel on your teeth due to frequent vomiting. If you find yourself brushing right after getting sick, try rinsing with water and waiting about 30 minutes, which can help protect your enamel from erosion.

Cravings and frequent snacking may also increase your risk for cavities. If you’re reaching for sweets more often, be sure to brush regularly, drink plenty of water, and keep up with flossing.

Dental Visits Are Safe During Pregnancy

Cleanings, exams, and even necessary procedures like fillings or root canals are all safe while you’re pregnant. In fact, taking care of your oral health is an important part of prenatal care. If something feels off, don’t wait until after delivery to get it checked. Your dentist can adjust treatment timing and positioning to keep visits feeling manageable as your pregnancy progresses.

Schedule a Visit at Soft Touch Dentistry

If you’re planning to become pregnant or are already expecting, consider scheduling a dental checkup with us early in your journey. Staying on top of your oral health helps protect both you and your baby.

Call Soft Touch Dentistry at 617-782-9250 (Brighton) or 617-332-8146 (Newton) to make an appointment today. You can rely on us to help keep your smile healthy while your body goes through pregnancy-related changes.