DECAY :- The academics have shown that calcium can not be removed from your teeth which would lead us to believe that your teeth are at no risk. At the practice we think that your teeth are at risk and many mums would tell you likewise. Is it a change in saliva, the mouth's  natural defense against decay? Is it a change in eating habits- a few cravings perhaps? Could it be that morning sickness prevents good plaque control? It may be many factors but we try to make mums-to-be aware of the risks and to take steps to maintain good oral health. Watch for the extra sugary foods and ensure regular brushing, especially after sweet snacks.

GUM DISEASE :- All the hormone changes that go on even in the first weeks of pregnancy can cause the gums to become much more sensitive to plaque, causing an exaggerated inflammatory response to the bacteria in the plaque. This inflammation causes the gums to bleed on brushing or eating an apple for instance. This can also lead to gum disease. What can I do? Effective brushing  - and we recommend  electric brushes, the Braun oral B rechargeable range being the market leader and extremely effective.                                                                               Even when the gums bleed, keep brushing. If it is particularly bad, Corodyl Dental Gel can be used on your brush after regular brushing, especially at night. It does not taste great but it works. You can buy it from pharmacies but it is available on prescription from your dentist. Just ask!  If brushing is a struggle corsodyl mouthwash is a good alternative and is available from pharmacies or on prescription