Women can experience many health related side effects during pregnancy including oral health issues due to an increase in the body’s hormonal changes. Anywhere from 50% to 70% of all pregnant women will experience an oral health side effect called Pregnancy Gingivitis. Pregnancy Gingivitis shows up sometime between the 2nd and 8th month of pregnancy. Symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis include red, swollen gums that bleed when brushed. Symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis vary from patient to patient.
There is an increase in progesterone levels during pregnancy and this increase helps populate the growth of different types of gingivitis bacteria. Gum tissue is more susceptible to plaque during pregnancy. Pregnant women can become hypersensitive to plaque toxins.
Although the percentages are high for pregnant women to develop pregnancy gingivitis, there are ways to help prevent this condition. Good oral hygiene is vitally important during pregnancy. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is a good start, more often is better. Floss your teeth once a day and use a mouth rinse that has antimicrobial properties in it. Never skip your professional dental cleaning during pregnancy.
It is important to take care of your teeth and gums all throughout your life, especially when you are pregnant. There have been a number of studies that show a correlation between gum disease like pregnancy gingivitis and premature birth. One study in The Journal of the American Dental Association revealed that expecting mothers that had persistent or chronic gum disease were four to seven times more likely to give birth prematurely to underweight babies.
Take time to take care of your teeth and gums during pregnancy, your baby will thank you! Remember to visit your dental professional and maintain your regularly scheduled professional dental cleaning even during pregnancy.
