Pregnancy can have different effects in the woman's overall health condition. Most pregnant women can notice some changes in the gums throughout pregnancy, including redness and bleeding of the gums when brushing the teeth. In addition, some women can experience severe bleeding and swelling. These changes are known pregnancy gingivitis that usually starts on the second month of the pregnancy. Pregnancy gingivitis tends to increase around eight month and may decrease after giving birth.
This condition is usual in the front area of the mouth. The symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis are the same with the common gingivitis but may have different causes. Progesterone level in the body during pregnancy can reach up to ten percent higher than the normal level, which can improve certain bacterial growth that results to gingivitis. In addition, during pregnancy, the immune system works differently, which can change the body's reaction to bacteria.
To be able to reduce pregnancy gingivitis effects, it is best to have a good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth at least two times a day for two minutes is recommended. Make sure to floss every day as well. Antimicrobial mouthwash is advisable to prevent gum infection. Some doctors suggest that rinses that have no alcohol content are better though there is no proof that alcohol-based mouthwash may have bad effects on pregnancy.
During pregnancy, it is important to visit your dentist to check your oral health especially the condition of your gums. Pregnancy gingivitis can be treated using professional cleaning, which can be performed anytime in your pregnancy especially on the second trimester. However, advanced and aggressive treatments including periodontal surgery are not recommended until after giving birth.
Another effect of pregnancy in oral health is pregnancy granuloma or pyogenic granuloma, also known as pregnancy tumor. Two to ten percent of pregnant women may suffer from this condition, which is a growth in the gums. Though it is also called pregnancy tumor, it is not cancerous and dangerous. Pregnancy granuloma usually develops in the second trimester or pregnancy where red nodules that are commonly found in the upper gum line. However, red nodules can be found anywhere in the mouth as well. These nodules can easily bleed, which can form a crust or ulcer.
Pregnancy granuloma causes are still unknown but poor oral hygiene is usually a main factor. Blood vessel malformations, trauma, viruses and hormones can also be factors of the condition.
Tooth loss is also a common condition for pregnant women due to sever morning sickness or frequent vomiting, which can affect the enamel of the front teeth. It is necessary to contact your dentist if you are experiencing frequent vomiting to know different medications to prevent tooth erosion.
Dry mouth is also an effect of pregnancy. You can prevent dry mouth through drinking water and having hard cadies that are free from sugar or sugarless gum to help in the stimulation of the saliva.
On the other hand, excessive saliva can also be an effect or pregnancy though it is less common, which happens in the early stages of pregnancy. Excessive saliva may be connected to nausea.
Women who are planning to get pregnant should visit a dentist for oral checkup and treatment. Gums and teeth needs special attention during pregnancy, so right nutrition and regular brushing is important.
