If you’ve experienced morning sickness during pregnancy, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, vomiting and acid reflux can also harm your teeth just as much as they can disrupt your day.
How can you protect your smile from the negative effects of morning sickness during pregnancy?
Our dental team shares important tips below.
Why Stomach Acid Damages Teeth
When you vomit, strong stomach acids pass through your mouth and can erode your tooth enamel. This thin, protective layer doesn’t grow back, so repeated acid exposure can lead to:
- Enamel thinning
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Higher risk of decay
What You Can Do to Protect Your Teeth
Here are a few simple steps to reduce enamel damage during pregnancy:
1. Don’t Brush Right After Vomiting
Many sources falsely recommend brushing your teeth right after throwing up. It might seem like a good idea, but brushing right away can actually scrub acid deeper into the enamel. Instead, rinse with water or a mixture of water and baking soda first to neutralize acids. Give it around 30 minutes before brushing.
2. Rinse Often
After episodes of morning sickness or acid reflux, rinse your mouth thoroughly. A teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water is a safe, gentle way to neutralize acids.
3. Use a Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps reduce sensitivity. Your dentist may also recommend a fluoride rinse if your enamel is at risk.
Protect Your Smile at Fonthill Marketplace Dental
Morning sickness might be unavoidable, but tooth damage isn’t. With smart habits and support from Fonthill Marketplace Dental, you can keep your smile strong throughout pregnancy.
We’re here to help you fortify tooth enamel, protect against gum disease, and keep your smile as healthy as possible during pregnancy. Our dentists in Fonthill and Welland are happy to recommend protective products or techniques to preserve your enamel throughout your pregnancy.
Schedule an appointment today for pregnancy-safe dentistry in Fonthill and Welland.
