Research shows that pregnancy can increase your risk of tooth decay, pyogenic granuloma, pregnancy gingivitis, and periodontal disease. It is the reason why doctors recommend thorough oral hygiene as part of your prenatal care routine.

How does pregnancy affect your dental health?

Pregnancy and gingivitis
Increased levels of progesterone hormone promote the proliferation of gingivitis-causing bacteria in your oral cavity. Also, the hormone exaggerates your gums’ sensitive to toxins and plaque. Gingivitis causes gum bleeding, inflammation, and bad breath. The symptoms appear between the second and eight months of pregnancy. You can manage pregnancy-induced gingivitis by brushing twice a day. If the condition persists, visit your oral doctor for specialized management.

Pregnancy and pyogenic granuloma
Pyogenic granuloma is a non-malignant tumor that grows on your gum during pregnancy. Doctors link the condition to exaggerated inflammatory reaction triggered by plaque or food particles hidden within your gums. The tumor can impair your speech, cause discomfort, and or it may start bleeding when disturbed. Pyogenic granuloma can occur any time during pregnancy, but, it is more common during the second trimester. The tumor can disappear on its own, or your dentist can remove it through a simple surgical procedure. You can prevent pyogenic granuloma by brushing more than twice a day with anti-microbial toothpaste.

Pregnancy and periodontal gum disease
Periodontal gum disease is a severe condition that can cause irreparable destruction to your jawbone, teeth, and gum tissue. Furthermore, the gum disease can increase your risk of diabetes, stroke, and other chronic diseases. Affected women may experience gum bleeding, tooth loss, pus between the gum tissue, and bad breath. You can prevent the oral condition by brushing or flossing after every meal. Unmanageable cases may require a dentist’s intervention.

Pregnancy and tooth decay
Tooth decay results from increased mouth acidity which deteriorates the enamel. A majority of pregnant women experience this issue during the first months of pregnancy when the mouth’s acidity is at its highest.  The risk of tooth decay is higher for women with a craving to sugary foods and those suffering from morning sickness. Just like any other oral disease, you can reduce pregnancy-related tooth cavity by brushing regularly.

Can your poor dental health affect your baby?
Reliable studies indicate that expectant women with gingivitis or periodontitis have a higher likelihood of giving birth to underweight kids. Moreover, oral bacteria can stimulate the production of prostaglandins, a lipid that can induce premature delivery.

Good periodontal health is an essential part of pregnancy care. The practice shields you from pregnancy-induced gingivitis, tooth decay, periodontal gum disease, and pyogenic granuloma. If left unmanaged, gingivitis and periodontal gum disease can lead to a preterm delivery with low birth weight.

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