Pregnancy is a challenging but beautiful journey. As a woman, you go through many physical and emotional changes. Your dental health can also go through many changes during this time.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease and occurs when bacteria build up along the gum line. This condition can cause inflammation and redness in the gums and also cause bad breath. If left untreated, gingivitis can turn into a more serious gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss over time.
Is Pregnancy Linked to Gum Disease?
Yes, pregnancy is a risk factor for gum disease in many women. That’s because hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can cause the gums to become inflamed and more likely to bleed during brushing and flossing. Additionally, there is an increased risk of developing gingivitis. This is an infection of the gum tissues that causes them to become red and swollen while also causing bleeding during regular cleanings. Some women also report having bad taste in their mouth due to increased levels of progesterone and estrogen. These hormones can also slow the flow of saliva, which normally washes away food particles and neutralizes acids in the mouth. Saliva is necessary to wash away plaque that can accumulate on the teeth. Without proper oral hygiene routines that include brushing and flossing, this plaque can eventually harden into tartar. This makes it more difficult to remove from the teeth. Over time it can irritate and inflame the gum tissues and lead to the development of gum disease.
It’s important for pregnant women to practice excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice each day and flossing once each day. It’s also wise to schedule an annual checkup with a family dentistry office so that any emerging issues can be caught and treated early before they have a chance to worsen.
In addition to practicing good oral hygiene habits, it’s also important for pregnant women to maintain a healthy diet that includes foods high in calcium. Calcium-rich foods such as milk, yogurt, and cheese can help to strengthen teeth and bones as well as prevent tooth decay. It’s especially important that a pregnant woman avoids foods that are high in sugar as these can promote decay while leading to a greater risk of developing gum disease.
Please schedule an appointment online or call us at (760) 433-9255 to have a consultation with us, and we will be happy to assist you further.