Pregnancy and Oral Health

You are entitled to free NHS dental treatment during pregnancy and for up to 12 months after your baby is born. A list of dental practices taking on new NHS patients can be found here.

Always let your dentist know that you are pregnant as some dental treatments may need to be postponed until after pregnancy.

It’s important to see your dentist regularly during pregnancy to help maintain good oral health as hormonal changes can affect your gums and teeth.

Pregnancy causes hormonal changes in your body which can make your gums more sensitive to plaque. You may notice that your gums are bleeding or are sore from inflammation. Keep up a thorough oral hygiene routine, brushing twice a day, to protect your gums.

Pregnancy cravings can lead to frequent snacking. Try to limit sugary foods and drinks to reduce the risk of tooth decay.

If you experience vomiting, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Stomach acid softens teeth enamel and brushing too soon can cause damage. Rinse your mouth with water and brush later.

If you would like to use mouthwash after experiencing vomiting, use an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash. Please note, this does not replace brushing your teeth twice a day and cleaning in between your teeth (i.e. flossing).  Speak to your dentist for further tailored advice.

You should stop smoking if you are pregnant. The NHS Grampian Smoking Advice Service provides friendly and practical advice to help you do this. All help is free of charge and can be offered on a one-to-one or group basis depending on your needs. Call Healthpoint on 08085 20 20 30 or email gram.healthpoint@nhs.scot. You can also get some advice from your pharmacist or doctor.

You should not be drinking alcohol if you are pregnant. For advice and information contact Alcohol Focus on 0141 572 6700 or Alcohol Focus Scotland.

If you have registered to receive a Baby Box, a baby toothbrush will be included in this box. Your midwife will help you sign up for the Baby Box at your 18–20 week or 28-week appointment and this will arrive before your baby is born. More information about the Baby Box can be found here.

You can register your baby from birth! You can find the list of practices currently taking on new NHS patients here. Bring your baby along to your appointments as it can help them get used to the sights and smells of a dental practice and provide you with the opportunity to discuss their oral health with a dental healthcare professional.

Signs of teething include drooling, flushed cheeks, disrupted sleep, and a desire to chew or bite. For more information about teething please visit Teething – Childsmile.

Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger or soft brush. Cool teething toys in the fridge for extra relief. Lots of cuddles help too!

You can start brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as the first one appears. Use a small-headed toothbrush, like the one from your Baby Box, with a smear of fluoride toothpaste on a dry brush. Using the toothpaste provided from your Health Visitor will help your baby get used to the taste and texture.

Brush your baby’s teeth twice a day, making sure that one time is before your baby goes to sleep at night. This video  will provide you with more information about brushing your baby’s teeth and you can find further information on the Childsmile website.