Does Pregnancy Have Any Effect On Oral Health?

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by: Martin Fresh
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Date: Fri, 4 Feb 2011 Time: 5:18 AM
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Yes, it does unfortunately. Not just that, it is as important for pregnant women to look after their teeth and gums as it is to look after their general well being. There are a number of conditions which affect oral health.

Pregnancy gingivitis

For instance, some women find that their gums become redder or even bleed during pregnancy, particularly when they clean their teeth. Others may find that their gums swell. Called pregnancy gingivitis, the condition usually appears around the second month, but peaks shortly before the birth of the child - around eight months. It gradually improves after the baby is born.

Gingivitis itself is an inflammation of the gums normally associated with bacterial infection. Pregnancy gingivitis however, while similar, has a different underlying cause. In short, it relates to changes in hormone levels during pregnancy, particularly progesterone; it is around ten times higher than normal. This massive boost may increase the probability of bacterial growth which in turn causes gingivitis.

If you are at all worried about developing the condition it is advisable to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes. Dentists also recommend flossing teeth and using an antibacterial wash. The latter is a little contentious as many of the washes available for sale contain alcohol. Since doctors do not generally recommend ingesting the drug during pregnancy it might be worth trying to find a wash that is alcohol-free. Dentists also suggest that pregnant women should ensure they have regular checkups which would include professional cleaning.

Pregnancy granuloma

Other oral health problems which pregnant women may suffer from include pregnancy granuloma. Basically, this is a growth or tumour on the gums. It occurs in up to 10 per cent of women. Although called a tumour, it isn't. Rather, it is a non cancerous red coloured nodule that normally appears on the gum line above the teeth but it can be found elsewhere. It usually appears during the second trimester.

Also called pyogenic granuloma or pregnancy tumour, it is a general sign of poor oral hygiene. The condition may also be caused by viruses, a trauma, hormones or malformed blood vessels. The nodules are likely to be very unsightly as they can bleed easily and develop a crust or ulcer. Interestingly, the condition is almost always associated with pregnancy gingivitis.

Acid erosion and dry mouth

Pregnancy invariably involves constant vomiting, usually during the early stages. This can itself cause problems such as tooth erosion, particularly of the enamel on the back of the individual's front teeth. If you are finding problems with your teeth in this way, it is worth consulting your dentist for advice.

Another condition often reported is dry mouth, the medical term being Xerostomia. It isn't really a disorder but a symptom of something else. In non pregnant people it is often a sign of diabetes. Although diabetes does occur during pregnancy, dry mouth in this case is not normally serious or symptomatic of something else. If you suffer from dry mouth, dentists advise drinking plenty of water and eating a sugar-free sweet which will stimulate the production of saliva.

In contrast to dry mouth is excessive saliva production. Although much less common many women do suffer from it. The condition normally occurs and finishes during the first trimester, and is sometimes accompanied with feelings of nausea. Looking after your teeth, gums and mouth during pregnancy is as paramount as looking after the rest of your body. While the above mentioned conditions are often worrying, it is worth remembering they normally disappear by the time your baby is born.

About the Author

If you are pregnant and suffering from gum bleeding then you should immediately better your oral health and see your dentist who can offer periodontitis information to ensure your teeth and gums are in a good condition.