Keep Your Teeth Safe When Battling Morning Sickness

Pregnancy is an exciting time in your life, and your body will be going through a ton of changes. One of these changes has to do with your mouth, and some side effects of pregnancy like morning sickness can also have impact your teeth. In fact, about 80% of pregnant women experience morning sickness, and while your teeth might be the last thing on your mind at this time, it is important to take steps to protect them.

Vomiting and the Teeth

Vomiting as a result of morning sickness can be dangerous to the teeth. This can expose the teeth to stomach acid that can ultimately lead to decay and serious health concerns with your mouth. Fortunately, there are certain steps that you can take to reduce the amount of acid that your teeth will be exposed to if you experience morning sickness.

Minimize Your Risk of Decay

If you are suffering from morning sickness, it is more important than ever that you take steps to try and keep your teeth healthy:

• Wait to brush. While you might be tempted to brush your teeth immediately after vomiting, this can actually result in more damage. Stomach acid might weaken the enamel of your teeth, so brushing can actually cause scratching and additional problems.
• Rinse after you vomit. Water is a good way to remove dangerous acids from the teeth and can reduce the chance of decay.
• Use toothpaste. Applying a small amount of toothpaste to your teeth can help to protect them from acid.
• Rinse with mouthwash. An alcohol-free mouthwash swished in your mouth after vomiting can protect your teeth against stomach acid.

If you are expecting a baby, please contact us for a checkup. You'll be able to get tips on how to keep your teeth healthy throughout your pregnancy and long after.