Pregnancy and Gingivitis: What Every Expectant Mother Should Know

Motherhood is a beautiful stage in a woman's life, but pregnancy brings hormonal changes that can affect oral health, particularly the gums. Understanding pregnancy gingivitis, its signs, and prevention can help maintain both maternal and fetal health.

PREGNANCY AND GINGIVITIS

Motherhood is considered one of the most beautiful stages of a woman’s life. Yet, to experience this blissful stage, the hormonal surge during this period makes a woman endure several changes, among which one of the important yet unnoticed ones is the condition of our gums.

WHAT IS PREGNANCY GINGIVITIS?

During pregnancy, the surge of estrogen and progesterone hormones, which are needed for the growth of the fetus, can make our gums more vulnerable to plaque, leading to gingivitis.

SIGNS TO BE NOTICED:

- Gums get enlarged with prominent color change and bleeding.

- Margins of gums appear red, and shiny with a raspberry-like appearance.

- Sometimes, the enlargement may form tumor-like masses called pregnancy tumors.

DOES PREGNANCY GINGIVITIS AFFECT THE FETUS?

No evidence has been recorded of gingivitis affecting the health of a fetus or baby; however, if left untreated, it may develop into periodontitis, which can cause tooth loosening, premature birth, and even miscarriage.

HOW COMMON IS PREGNANCY GINGIVITIS?

About 60% to 70% of pregnant women experience changes in their gums. The severity of gingivitis increases during the beginning of the second and third months, reaches its peak at the eighth month, and gradually decreases by the ninth month, disappearing after three months post-delivery.

WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO NOTE FOR PREVENTION AND TREATMENT?

Pregnancy gingivitis is very common and highly treatable. While you cannot change your hormonal levels during pregnancy, you can take certain steps for prevention and treatment:

- Schedule a visit to your dentist before and during pregnancy.

- Oral prophylaxis by a dentist and maintaining oral hygiene through proper brushing and flossing.

- Incorporate a healthy, nutritious diet, avoiding sugary foods, beverages, and tobacco products.

- Gargle with warm salt water.

- In severe conditions, a dentist may prescribe an oral rinse or oral antibiotics.