Pregnant Women - Bentley Mathieson Dentalcare in Hartlepool

If you’re expecting, oral health is probably the last thing on your mind. But maintaining proper dental hygiene can be more important than ever at this exciting time.

Carole Harrison reviewed on

Very happy now with the treatment I have received.

The hormone changes in your body during pregnancy can have unexpected effects on oral health. They could potentially cause swollen and inflamed gums from around the second month of pregnancy.

Dentists call this pregnancy gingivitis caused by the progesterone hormone, which affects the body’s response to the toxins released by plaque buildup. The progesterone in our body increases tenfold during pregnancy, leaving pregnant women more susceptible to gingival problems.

Pregnancy can also cause granuloma – an outbreak of red nodules on the upper gums. Although not dangerous, pregnancy granuloma can cause discomfort, so it’s best to seek expert advice early on.

Dentist for Pregnant Women in Hartlepool

Here at Bentley Mathieson, we can help you get treated in your condition. There are many reasons why women think they don’t need extra dental care, but they’d be wrong.

Additional oral health problems exacerbated by pregnancy include tooth erosion from exposure to acids during morning sickness. Some women also experience dry mouth, which is easily remedied by drinking plenty of water or stimulating saliva production by chewing sugarless gum.

We want to make sure all our patients enjoy healthy, happy pregnancies. If you are pregnant, don’t wait for any of the conditions to arise before getting checked by a dentist.

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Call Bentley Mathieson today to take the first step towards your brand new smile and let us help you keep the best oral hygiene possible during your exciting pregnancy journey. Call 01429 221 353 now.

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Pregnancy FAQs

Do I need to see the dentist when I’m pregnant?

Yes, problems can arise with your smile as a direct result of being pregnant. It’s best not to leave it to chance.

Is the dentist free when I’m pregnant?

You could be entitled to free treatments on the NHS if you’ve just had a baby or are pregnant. Contact our clinic today to find out if you’re eligible.

Can I get free dental when I’m pregnant?

Potentially. You could be entitled to free treatments on the NHS if you’ve just had a baby or are pregnant. Contact our clinic today to find out if you’re eligible.

How can I stop my gums from hurting while pregnant?

You can visit a hygienist to ensure your pain isn’t something other than mild gum disease. Your gums are naturally more sensitive during pregnancy due to hormone changes. To lessen irritation, bleeding or soreness in your gums while pregnant, you can take precautions such as using a soft-bristled toothbrush. You can also avoid extremely hot or cold food and drink to minimise the risk of tooth sensitivity.

What are the warning signs of bad oral health while pregnant?

If you experience any pain, swelling, bleeding gums, tender or sore gums, pain when chewing, bad breath or receding gums, there’s a good chance you have some form of gum disease.

If you have any of these symptoms, then there’s a good chance you might have a mild case of gingivitis which is very common during pregnancy. Gingivitis can also be treated very quickly with a quick appointment with one of our skilled hygienists.

Can I get braces while pregnant?

We would advise against getting any orthodontic treatment during pregnancy as it can usually involve x-rays. Plus, your gums can be extra sensitive during pregnancy and might feel a higher impact than they usually would when you’re not pregnant.

When should I book my child for their first dentist appointment?

You should book an appointment for your child at around two years old when their milk teeth begin to come through. Of course, if you have any concerns about your child’s oral health, you should contact us, and we’ll assess and treat anything that requires our attention.