Hormonal changes during pregnancy bring with them oral health issues for some women, putting the pregnancy at a higher risk for miscarriage. Along with flossing and ensuring to brush your teeth at least twice a day, one of the most effective ways of ensuring oral hygiene is by using mouthwash.
Experts have differing opinions on using mouthwash while pregnant as most types contain alcohol. No matter how little, alcohol can cause a lot of serious health issues for your baby, which is why doctors always recommend that women stop consuming alcohol as soon as they find out they are pregnant.
Since mouthwash is not directly ingested, is it OK to use mouthwash when pregnant? While some experts consider it safe, there is a small chance that it may cause harm and there are others who believe it is a risk that should not be taken.
If you feel you must use mouthwash or are recommended to do so due to dental problems, here are some tips for you to keep in mind:
Since using mouthwash with alcohol in it can cause problems with the developing baby’s cognitive development later in life and can even cause birth defects if ingested, dentists recommend using a fluoridated, alcohol-free mouthwash during pregnancy and some even suggest a fluoride rinse before bed to prevent plaque and keep gum problems at bay.
Here are some precautions to take if you are using mouthwash while pregnant:
While the use of mouthwash during pregnancy does seem to be a debatable topic where some experts think it causes no harm while others believe it is harmful, it is always good to be on the safe side and avoid anything with alcohol. If you have oral problems, ensure your dentist is aware that you are pregnant so that she will be able to make good recommendations for mouthwash.