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Pregnancy Gingivitis

Women who are pregnant should have a periodontal exam as part of prenatal care. Statistics have found that only half of expecting mothers receive proper dental care.

Pregnancy Gingivitis is the swelling or inflammation of the gums that many pregnant women suffer, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. It is caused by a bacterial film that grows on the teeth, resulting in plaque buildup. The plaque irritates the gum tissue, making them tender, bright red, swollen, sensitive, and easy to bleed. The risk in pregnancy women increases with the second month of pregnancy and decreases by the ninth month.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy effects the body's natural response to dental plaque. Expectant mothers (and women who take oral contraceptives), generally experience elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone. This increases the chance of developing gingivitis between 65-70%. Infected gums are toxic reservoirs of disease-causing bacteria, which can attack the ligaments, gums, and bones surrounding your teeth creating infected pockets similar to large infected wounds in the oral cavity. These pockets can provide access to the bloodstream, allowing bacteria to travel throughout the body. The bacteria that cause gingivitis can enter the bloodstream, traveling to the uterus. This triggers the body to produce prostaglandins, a natural fatty acid that normally controls inflammation and smooth muscle contraction. When pregnant, the level of prostaglandins increases and peaks when she goes into labor. It is possible that the extra prostaglandins produced when the body is reacting to infected gums, the body may think it is a signal to go into labor. This can cause a child to arrive too soon or be born too small.

Pregnancy tumors, (pyogenic granuloma), are also part of the response to the plaque/bacteria that causes gum disease. They are inflammatory and benign growths that develop on the gums, and although they are rare, usually painless and non cancerous, treatment is highly recommended.

Preventing Pregnancy Gingivitis:

• Brush teeth two to three times a day and after meals whenever possible
• Floss and use mouthwash daily
• If you suffering from morning sickness, rinse with water frequently and/or brush your teeth often to neutralize the acid caused by vomiting
• If brushing your teeth causes morning sickness, rinse your mouth with water, brush without the toothpaste and follow with an anti-plaque fluoride mouthwash
• Eat healthy foods with plenty of vitamin B12 and C
• See your dentist for advice on preventing/controlling plaque and gingivitis. Schedule routine checkups and cleanings.

Source: Pregnancy Gingivitis, Therabreath.com