By Rowena M.
About half of all “Moms-To-Be” have swollen, red, tender gums that bleed easily when brushing and flossing. This happens because hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the body’s natural response to bacteria found in dental plaque. The result is an increase in inflammation which is the hallmark of pregnancy induced gingivitis. If left unchecked, the inflammation can lead to bone loss around your teeth, and periodontitis.
Once bone loss has occurred, the condition requires a lifetime of maintenance to prevent it from progressing. There is also a link between maternal periodontal disease and pre-term low birth rate babies. Patients who already have gingivitis when they become pregnant, are more likely to experience an increase in symptoms during pregnancy unless they take steps to prevent it. Fortunately, pregnancy induced gingivitis usually resolves within three months of delivery. You can help by seeing your dentist regularly both during and after your pregnancy. We recommend a three month hygiene interval for our pregnant patients, and stress good oral hygiene at home for the health of both the mother and child.