Pregnancy Gingivitis: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Posted on 4/26/2021 by Dr. Boustany
During pregnancy, keeping your teeth and gums healthy is probably not on your to-do list. However, the hormonal changes during pregnancy can greatly affect your oral health.
Around 40% of women tend to develop gingivitis at some point during their pregnancy. The increase in progesterone hormone levels can make your mouth vulnerable to bacterial plaque that can infect your gums.
Causes of Pregnancy Gingivitis
If you notice blood, pain, or swelling while brushing or flossing your teeth, you may have gingivitis. Here are some causes of pregnancy gingivitis:
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Surging levels of progesterone increase the risk of tooth decay
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Decreased saliva production
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Increased intake of carbohydrates and sugar
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Effect of morning sickness on teeth and gums
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Aversion to mint may make you avoid oral care products
Symptoms of Pregnancy Gingivitis
Gum inflammation is most likely to occur between the seventh and eighth months of pregnancy. Here are some tell-tale signs:
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Swollen gums
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Tender or puffy gums
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Receding gums
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Bleeding gums
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Red gums
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Bad breath
Treatment and Prevention for Pregnancy Gingivitis
It is important to maintain good oral hygiene to steer clear of gingivitis during pregnancy. Some steps you can take to treat and prevent this condition include:
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Properly brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes
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Floss your teeth at least once a day
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Use an anti-gingivitis toothpaste to reverse early symptoms of gum damage
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Use an anti-gingivitis mouthwash
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Rinse thoroughly after brushing to eliminate bacteria
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Eat a balanced diet and make sure your body is getting sufficient vitamins, phosphorus, and protein
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Avoid sugary items
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Visit your dentist regularly once it is safe to do so
Taking care of your teeth and gums is essential in order to avoid pregnancy gingivitis. If you think your gums may be infected, schedule an appointment with us at Revive Dental and Implant Center by calling us at (304) 467-4265 today.
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During pregnancy, keeping your teeth and gums healthy is probably not on your to-do list. However, the hormonal changes during pregnancy can greatly affect your oral health.