Pregnancy causes a range of physical and hormonal changes, some of which – like morning sickness and weight gain – are well known, while others, such as dental issues, hair loss, and changes in vision, are less commonly discussed.

Many women experience unexpected symptoms that aren’t widely talked about, making awareness on these topics important.

Keep reading to understand more about the causes, prevention, and treatment options for tooth loss in pregnancy.

What Causes Tooth Loss in Pregnancy?

Hormonal changes. Increased levels of estrogen and progesterone can affect gum health, making them more prone to inflammation (pregnancy gingivitis), which, if untreated, can contribute to tooth loss.
Calcium deficiency. While pregnancy itself doesn’t directly leach calcium from teeth, insufficient dietary intake can impact overall bone and dental health.
Morning sickness. Frequent vomiting exposes teeth to stomach acids, leading to enamel erosion and increased vulnerability to decay.
Poor oral hygiene. Increased cravings for sugary foods and exhaustion during pregnancy may lead to neglected oral care.

While pregnancy itself does not directly cause tooth loss, dental problems during pregnancy are relatively common.

Research suggests that around 40% of pregnant women have some form of periodontal disease, with racial and ethnic minorities and women of low socioeconomic status being particularly vulnerable.

Although actual tooth loss during pregnancy is less common, untreated periodontal disease can increase the risk of tooth mobility and eventual loss.

The good news is that with proper oral care and timely intervention, the risk of losing teeth can be significantly reduced.

How to Prevent Tooth Loss During Pregnancy

Address gingivitis. Gingivitis is common during pregnancy, and it can lead to more severe gum disease if left untreated.
Use a soft toothbrush. A hard or medium-bristled toothbrush can irritate your gums and make gingivitis worse. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush as it’s gentler on your gums.
Get regular dental checkups. Visiting a dentist early in pregnancy can help identify potential issues before they worsen. Most routine dental procedures are safe during pregnancy. Be sure to let the dentist know you’re pregnant.
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily – there are multiple flossing tools to explore.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help keep teeth and gums healthy. Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
Consume calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified cereals to help maintain strong teeth.
Manage morning sickness. Rinsing the mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash after vomiting can help neutralise stomach acids and protect enamel.
Limit sugary snacks. Reducing sugar intake minimises the risk of cavities and decay.
Stop smoking, as it worsens gum disease and can lead to further complications.

How Can Tooth Loss During Pregnancy Be Treated?

If tooth loss occurs, there are several restorative options to consider:

Dental implants are a long-term solution that mimic natural teeth, though the procedure may need to wait until after pregnancy.
Dental bridges fill the gap left by missing teeth using artificial teeth (pontics) that are anchored to adjacent natural teeth.
Dentures are a more affordable and non-invasive solution for multiple missing teeth.

Here’s an overview of the key differences:

Feature	Dental Implants	Dental Bridges	Dentures
Structure	A titanium post is surgically implanted in the jawbone and topped with a crown.	Artificial teeth (pontics) anchored to adjacent teeth or implants.	Removable appliance that replaces multiple missing teeth, supported by gums and sometimes adhesives.
Procedure	Requires surgery to place the implant, followed by months of healing before the crown is attached.	Less invasive; adjacent teeth are reshaped and crowned to support the bridge.	No surgery required; impressions are taken, and a custom-fit denture is made.
Support	Self-supporting (does not rely on other teeth).	Uses nearby teeth for support, which may require them to be trimmed.	Rests on gums (full dentures) or clips onto existing teeth (partial dentures).
Durability	Can last 20+ years with proper care	Typically lasts 5-15 years before needing replacement.	Lasts 5-10 years but may need adjustments due to gum changes.
Bone Health	Stimulates and preserves jawbone, preventing bone loss.	Does not prevent bone loss in the missing tooth area.	Does not prevent bone loss; jawbone can shrink over time, affecting fit.
Aesthetics	Looks and functions like natural teeth.	Looks natural but may not be as strong or long-lasting.	Can look natural but may shift, affecting speech and eating.
Comfort	Feels like a real tooth, no discomfort once healed.	Fixed in place, feels natural after adjustment.	May feel bulky or uncomfortable; adhesives may be needed for stability.
Cost	Highest initial cost but best long-term investment.	Moderate cost; lower upfront than implants.	Lowest cost option but may require more maintenance and replacement.
Maintenance	Brushing and flossing like natural teeth.	Special flossing techniques needed for cleaning under the bridge.	Must be removed and cleaned daily; adhesives may be required.

A dentist can help determine the best option based on your dental health and pregnancy considerations.

Social Support

Connect with others who are going through similar experiences for support, reassurance, and practical advice.

Here are some options to consider:

Reddit has a community of over 1.6M members, describing itself as “a safe, welcoming community for all pregnant people.”
Peanut is dubbed the "Tinder for moms" – it’s a social networking app designed to connect women throughout various stages of motherhood. Users can join discussion groups and participate in live audio conversations to share experiences and seek advice.
An extensive online resource offering information on pregnancy, birth, and early childhood development. There are active forums where you can connect, share stories, and ask questions.
Explore thousands of Meetup groups worldwide to find local peer support from other expectant mothers.

Summary

Experiencing tooth problems during pregnancy can be highly distressing, as hormonal changes already heighten emotions during this time.

Focusing on prevention, professional dental care, and accessing social support can significantly alleviate the worries and challenges associated with dental issues during pregnancy.

It’s important to remember that dental changes in pregnancy are common, and solutions exist to restore both function and aesthetics. Seeking advice from a dentist and prioritising self-care can help you feel more in control of your oral health.

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