Pregnancy brings a whole host of changes to your body, but among the backaches, morning sickness and stretch marks, there’s also an effect to your gum health during those 40 weeks.
The most common oral symptom pregnant women report is pregnancy-related gingivitis. Hormone levels sky rocket during pregnancy, especially that of the hormone progesterone. The increase in progesterone can make it easier for gingivitis-causing bacteria to grow, and it can also make the gum tissue more sensitive to plaque related inflammation by creating a heightened response to bacterial toxins found in plaque.
This exaggerated response to bacteria can create reddened, swollen gums with the tendency to bleed and at times can be painful. Most often these symptoms seem to increase in the second trimester. Since the second trimester is usually the most comfortable time during pregnancy for most women, routine oral examinations and cleanings are highly recommended at this time to ensure any oral infections are addressed and treated. Pregnancy gingivitis left untreated can develop into a more serious condition, known as periodontal disease. Periodontal disease not only begins destruction of the bone that supports your teeth, it also has the potential to cause preterm labor and low birth weight babies. Women with periodontal disease are 4 to 7 times more likely to deliver underweight babies before 37 weeks gestation.
There are several things you can do during pregnancy to ensure a healthy mouth, even if you are among the unlucky 50+% of women who suffers from mild to severe morning sickness.
Diligent home-care is a must during pregnancy. A soft bristled or electric toothbrush, used twice a day and aimed at the gumline will help to reduce the plaque buildup that creates inflammation. Daily flossing to remove plaque between the teeth is also crucial.
Warm salt water rinses will help to pull inflammation out of the oral tissue. Use approximately 8oz of warm water and 1 tsp of table salt. Rinse for 30 seconds each day. (This is not recommended if you are currently dealing with high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia.)
Go in for your routine check-up and cleaning. Make your provider aware of your pregnancy and explain any symptoms you may be having. Allow them the time to explain any treatments or homecare technique changes that you may need to make.
Delivery of your sweet bundle of joy should bring relief to women who experience pregnancy-related gingivitis. If you decide to breastfeed, you may continue to experience some of the symptoms, as you will still have fluctuating hormone levels. As always, please let your dentist or dental hygienist know if you are experiencing any continued swelling, bleeding or discomfort.
S. Paige Tscherpel, RDH, BSDH
Consulted sources include:
http://www.m.webmd.com/oral-health/pregnancy-gingivitis-tumors
http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/swollen-gums-during-pregnancy/
http://www.babycenter.com/_bleeding-gums-during-pregnancy_217.bc