Are Pregnant Women More at Risk for Periodontal Disease?

Posted by: Dr. Sirakian Categories: Dentistry, Oral Health

During pregnancy, it’s more common for women to experience problems with their gums and teeth. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause sensitive teeth and gum swelling and bleeding.

Because of the changes to oral health during pregnancy, it is very important for pregnant women to practice good oral health care and to visit their dentist regarding any oral health issues that may arise. This can help prevent further damage to gums and teeth.

If you do not get treated for your problems with your teeth and gums then periodontitis can occur. During periodontal or gum disease, the gum pulls away the teeth and form pockets that later become infected. If periodontal disease is left untreated, it can result in tooth loss. Here are some potential symptoms, and how you can prevent them.

1. Pregnancy gingivitis

The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy allow for bacteria to grow more easily in the mouth and in the gums. Since there are more bacteria in your mouth, there is an increased chance of periodontitis. Because your gums may be bleeding, receding, or sensitive, the bacteria have easier access to eat away at your gums.

Brushing with a soft-bristled brush and not brushing too aggressively can help. By brushing twice a day and flossing, you are eradicating damaging plaque and bacteria in your mouth and on your teeth. A soft-bristled brush can help prevent bleeding which is common due to the additional amount of blood you have in your body.

2. Nausea and vomiting

Morning sickness is common for most pregnant women and can harm teeth. The stomach acids that also come up when vomiting can damage your enamel. When the enamel is broken down, it is easier for acid and bacteria to attack teeth. This can cause sensitivity and decay.

Try chewing sugarless gum that contains xylitol to decrease the amount of plaque and acids on your teeth. Also try using a toothpaste and mouthwash that contains fluoride.

While gum and teeth changes during pregnancy are painful, there are things you can do to alleviate the pain. Discuss additional options with your dentist to prevent any further damage to teeth and gums.

3 Habits That Destroy Your Smile

According to a spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry, there are a few things you may be doing that are destroying your teeth… Brushing too soon after eating Consuming acidic foods and beverages is a part of everyone’s diet. Whether it is a citrus fruit or a glass of wine, these contain a lot […]

Will Whitening Harm Your Teeth?

Repeated use of whitening strips might sound dangerous to your teeth, but, according to dental professionals, there is no harm to using whitening strips over time. Dr. Denis Kinane, dean of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, said in a New York Times article that “there is no indication that frequent, long-term use […]

Beaver Enamel: What Can We Learn?

When you think of the paradigm of good oral health, you may not think immediately of beavers. However, it’s true—these constructive little critters have good oral health, despite the fact that you don’t see beavers brushing and flossing! So what keeps their teeth in such good condition? They’ve got help right from the get-go with […]

Why Add Mouthwash to Your Oral Health Routine?

Maybe you’ve seen the multi-colored bottles of minty-fresh mouthwash in the supermarket and have been wondering what the benefits are of adding mouthwash to your routine. Mouthwash won’t be the answer to all of your oral health needs, so read on to figure out what mouthwash can and can’t do for you. When adding mouthwash […]

ADA Recommends Earlier Fluoride Distribution for Children

When you think about dental hygiene for your kids, are brushing and flossing the only things that come to mind? These two items are highly important to maintain good oral health, but recently, the American Dental Association “recommends earlier fluoride distribution for children,” meaning parents will have to put a tad more effort in caring […]