Beating Morning Sickness for Better Dental Health and Well Being

Beating Morning Sickness for Better Dental Health
Guest post by Dr. Amanda Tavoularis (dentably.com)

Having a healthy mouth is essential to having good overall health and well being which is why proper dental care is so important throughout one’s life.  There are some moments in life when dental care becomes even more important with regard to women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or  nursing. 

Being pregnant is a magical time in a woman's life,  yet it comes with its share of inconveniences.  One of the most common and frustrating symptoms is morning sickness. While the nausea is certainly what most people think about, morning sickness is also a danger to your oral health. 

With over 20 years of dental experience, I’ve worked with countless mothers to keep their dental care in check.   If you’re experiencing morning sickness, take a look at my tips to prevent it from affecting    your pearly whites. 

How Does Morning Sickness Affect Your Dental Health?

First, it’s important to understand how morning sickness can affect your dental health. The main reason is that stomach acids present in vomit can seriously damage your tooth enamel.   The acid can actually wear away at the enamel, which can cause permanent damage if left unchecked. Add to that hormone changes which can cause weakened gums which is a recipe for disaster. 

Brush Twice a Day

Good oral health starts at home with good habits. Brushing twice a day is essential to maintain oral health.  I understand, that being pregnant is draining on the body but brushing your teeth is important for pregnant women.    Twice a day is essential to good oral health. Switching to a plain toothpaste is a great option if brushing makes you sick to your stomach. Flossing and using antimicrobial mouthwash are additional ways that you can achieve oral health.

Use Baking Soda and Water

For those suffering from morning sickness, one of the most common side effects is vomiting.      It’s important to protect yourself from the stomach acids that come back up. The best way to treat this is swishing your mouth with water that includes baking soda in it. You can do this immediately before brushing your teeth.  Simply swish it around your mouth for a few seconds and then proceed with your brushing routine.  The baking soda will neutralize the acid, which will keep your enamel strong. 

Watch Your Diet

Lastly, while it might be difficult to fight the cravings, too much sugar is not good for your dental health.   Sugary food is a magnet for bacteria, and by eating it, you create an ideal environment for it to grow. These bacteria work to eventually break down your teeth and cause cavities. While it’s always important to limit sugar intake, it’s especially important during pregnancy.     Having a good diet is key to overall oral health. 

Good oral health is always important, and even more so during pregnancy.  Morning sickness can wreak havoc on your mouth and can cause lasting damage to your teeth.  That doesn’t have to happen though, and with a little care you’ll get through your pregnancy with a happy, healthy mouth.