Pregnancy is a journey of nurturing a baby in your womb which is often a rollercoaster ride. The ups and downs during this journey can be attributed to hormonal changes occurring in the body. You may suffer from issues like morning sickness, bloating, mood swings, and food cravings. One of the most neglected issues would however be poor oral health. According to research studies, about half of the mothers-to-be are likely to suffer from gum or periodontal disease during pregnancy.
If you experience any symptoms of gum disease while you’re pregnant, do not hesitate to consult the expert dental team at the Fairfield, ME dental office for some useful preventive, and care tips.
Understanding the link between pregnancy and gum disease
Research studies prove that pregnancy increases the risk of gum disease three times more than when suffered by a non-pregnant woman. You may experience swollen, red, inflamed, or bleeding gums, especially during your first and second trimester. It is important to note that pregnancy itself does not cause poor oral health, but changes in lifestyle and eating habits due to cravings may predispose you to develop gum inflammation, popularly known as pregnancy gingivitis.
Causes of gum disease during pregnancy
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Hormonal changes:
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- Increased levels of estrogen and progesterone can result in gum inflammation and bleeding. Pyogenic granuloma or pregnancy tumor is a common gingival growth that can easily bleed.
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Poor diet:
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- Increased sugar cravings can increase plaque accumulation and bacterial infiltration resulting in excess acid formation. This may increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
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Increased morning sickness:
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- Vomiting during pregnancy can cover your teeth with strong stomach acids. Repeated acid reflux can erode your tooth enamel and gums.
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Increased blood volume:
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- Increased blood supply to the gums can make them engorged which appear red, and swollen.
Symptoms of gum disease during pregnancy
Some of the common symptoms of gum disease during pregnancy include:
- Swollen, and inflamed gums
- Red, sore, and tender gums
- Increased bleeding from gums while brushing
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Gum recession (receding gums exposing the tooth roots)
- Diastema (gaps between teeth)
- Pregnancy tumor (mass of tissue appearing like a lump)
Preventing gum disease during pregnancy
Here are a few tips to follow that can prevent gum disease during pregnancy:
- Brush twice daily
- Floss at least once a day
- Consume a healthy, teeth-friendly diet including fruits and vegetables
- Limit your sugar intake
- Take your vitamin supplements regularly
- Visit your dentist for cleanings
While gum changes during pregnancy are common, the positive news is that early detection allows for effective management. If you experience gum disease during pregnancy, consulting a dentist is crucial to protect both your own health and that of your baby. Dentists can provide cleanings and guidance to enhance your oral health and well-being.
