You probably know that many physical and emotional changes you will experience during
pregnancy result from an increase in the levels of certain hormones - the chemicals
that regulate many important processes in the body. But what you may not realize
is that these hormonal variations can affect your oral health - and usually not
for the better. In fact, surges in the female hormones estrogen and progesterone
can dilate (expand) the tiny blood vessels in your gums, increasing blood flow.
This makes gums more sensitive to the bacteria (and associated toxins) found in
the sticky dental plaque that accumulates on teeth every day.
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Pregnant women commonly notice that their gums may become red and swollen, and even
bleed when they floss or brush their teeth, a condition known as "pregnancy gingivitis."
Similar gum inflammation can result from taking birth control pills that contain
a type of synthetic progesterone, or even from the normal hormonal fluctuations
of the menstrual cycle.
Another, less common effect of pregnancy hormones on the gums is an overgrowth of
gum tissue or small, berry-colored lumps at the gum line or between teeth. These
growths are called "pregnancy tumors," though they are completely benign.
All of the above conditions usually clear up within a few months after giving birth.
Still, if you experience gum inflammation, it's a sign that you need to take extra
conscientious care of your teeth and gums during pregnancy.
Why It Matters
Pregnancy hormones don't cause gingivitis by themselves - the irritants in plaque
need to be present first. So if you experience the signs and symptoms mentioned
above, you'll want to redouble your oral hygiene efforts, both for your sake and
your baby's. Untreated gingivitis can progress to a more serious form of gum disease
called periodontitis - a bacterial infection that attacks not just the gums but
also the tooth-supporting bone beneath. It can eventually cause bone loss, loose
teeth and even tooth loss. Some research has even indicated a link between periodontal
(gum) diseases and other serious health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease
and diabetes.
Pregnant women should also be aware that studies have suggested a link between periodontal
(gum) disease and preterm delivery. Although the exact mechanism by which this happens
is unclear, evidence suggests that the bacteria in dental plaque can reach the placenta
and trigger inflammatory responses. This causes substances to be released into the
bloodstream that may in turn start labor prematurely. Preeclampsia, a form of high
blood pressure specific to pregnancy, may also be associated with periodontal disease.
What You Can Do
- Eat right. Even if pregnancy cravings are driving you to seek out sugar, try to
go easy on the sweets. While they offer you and your developing baby virtually nothing
in a way of nutrients, they're the food of disease-causing oral bacteria. If you
find you can't resist sweets, try to eat them only at mealtimes and make sure to
brush your teeth afterwards.
- Stick to a good oral hygiene routine. Make sure to floss every day and to brush
your teeth at least twice per day. If morning (or afternoon or evening) sickness
is a problem, don't brush immediately after throwing up. That's because the enamel
on your teeth, which has been temporarily softened by the acid coming up from your
stomach, can now be easily removed. Instead, rinse with a teaspoon of baking soda
dissolved in a cup of water (or even plain water) to neutralize the acid. Wait a
full hour before brushing your teeth.
- Have a dental cleaning and exam. Not only are professional cleanings safe during
pregnancy, they're highly recommended. So if you haven't been to the dentist in
a while, now is a great time to make an appointment. And don't forget to share the
happy news! You teeth can certainly be cleaned and examined - but for other non-emergency
dental procedures, it's probably best to wait.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Gainesville Dental Arts at 703-743-2324.