Heavy vomiting in pregnancy leaves mothers tired, and few think of the effect on the teeth. Stomach acid can wear enamel if it is not handled properly.
- Heavy vomiting in morning sickness brings stomach acid into the mouth and can wear enamel and cause sensitivity.
- After vomiting, do not brush at once: rinse with plain water or diluted saline and wait about 30 minutes.
- Eating several small meals, keeping the mouth moist and keeping the gums clean helps care for teeth in pregnancy.
- Sensitive teeth, thin backs of the front teeth or swollen bleeding gums are reasons to see a dentist and say you are pregnant.
Many mothers to be have morning sickness and vomit several times a day during the first months. This leaves the body tired and also affects the teeth: stomach acid brought up into the mouth can wear enamel, especially behind the front teeth and on the chewing surfaces.
Why does heavy vomiting harm teeth?
Enamel is very hard but is easily softened by acid. Stomach fluid is strongly acidic, and with every episode of vomiting the teeth are bathed in acid for a short time. Repeated vomiting gradually wears away enamel and leads to sensitivity. This is similar to what happens with reflux, see whether stomach reflux wears teeth.
Should you brush straight after vomiting?
No. Right after vomiting the enamel has been softened by acid, and brushing then wears it away faster. You should:
- Rinse at once with plain water or diluted saline to wash away some of the acid.
- Wait about 30 minutes, then brush gently with a soft toothbrush.
- If your mouth feels very unpleasant, you may use a mild flavoured toothpaste in a small amount.
Daily tooth care
- Brush twice a day when you do not feel sick, and choose a small headed brush to reduce triggering nausea.
- Eat several small meals rather than a few big ones to ease nausea, and do not nibble sweets all day.
- Keep the mouth moist by sipping water.
- Keep the gums clean because they are prone to inflammation in pregnancy, see gum inflammation during pregnancy.
When should you see a dentist?
Have a check if teeth become sensitive, the backs of the front teeth look thin or shiny in an unusual way, gums are swollen and bleed, or there is toothache. Remember to tell the dentist that you are pregnant. See also whether pregnant women can have a tooth removed or filled. Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. You can walk in during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first.
Frequently asked questions
Can heavy morning sickness damage teeth?
Yes. Stomach acid wears enamel when vomiting is frequent, leading to sensitivity. Proper hygiene helps limit the harm.
Should I brush straight after vomiting?
No. Rinse at once with plain water or diluted saline, wait about 30 minutes and then brush gently.
What if brushing makes me feel sick?
Choose a small headed brush, brush when you feel less nauseous and use a small amount of mild toothpaste. If it is still difficult, ask the dentist for guidance.