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Pregnancy causes many changes in a woman’s body, and one area that often gets overlooked is oral health. Expectant mothers often develop gum disease, or gingivitis, a silent but dangerous condition that can cause severe damage if not treated early on by a periodontist in Pembroke Pines.

Understanding potential symptoms is important for preventing and identifying pregnancy gum disease early on. To help you, we created this guide.

What Is Pregnancy Gum Disease?

One type of gingivitis that results from hormonal changes during pregnancy is pregnancy gum disease. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly high progesterone and estrogen levels, can alter the body’s reaction to plaque accumulation and increase blood flow to the gums.

This causes inflammation by increasing the gums’ sensitivity and reactivity to bacteria, resulting in sensitive, swollen, red gums that can bleed when you brush or floss. If left untreated, it may develop into periodontitis, a more serious gum infection that damages the tooth-supporting bone.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that between 60% and 75% of expectant mothers have some form of gingivitis, showing how common—and dangerous—this condition can be.

Why Does It Happen?

Besides hormonal changes, experts believe that pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease in other ways.

For instance, morning sickness and frequent vomiting can expose the mouth to stomach acids, weakening enamel and irritating gum tissues. Additionally, dietary changes due to cravings for sugary or acidic foods can feed harmful bacteria, increasing plaque buildup.

Fatigue, nausea, and a busy schedule may lead some women to skip brushing or flossing, giving bacteria more time to grow.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Gums During Pregnancy

Pregnancy gum disease affects the mother and has been linked to adverse birth outcomes, such as premature birth and low birth weight. Because of this, taking care of your gums during this phase of life is more crucial than ever.

Thankfully, pregnancy gum disease can be avoided and controlled with healthy habits. Some essential tips for expecting mothers include:

– Brush and Floss Regularly: To remove plaque between your teeth and along the gum line, brush and floss at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.

– See Your Dentist: Pregnancy should not be an excuse for skipping dental checkups. Regular cleanings and checkups are safe and recommended during pregnancy. Let your dentist know you’re expecting—they can tailor your care accordingly.

– Use an Antimicrobial Mouth Rinse: Ask your dentist for a pregnancy-safe mouthwash to help lower bacteria and plaque.

– Rinse After Morning Sickness: To counteract stomach acids from vomiting, rinse your mouth with water. Avoid brushing, as it can contribute to enamel erosion.

– Eat a Balanced Diet: Avoid too much sugar and concentrate on foods high in calcium. Bone and gum health also depends on vitamins C and D.

Protect Your—And Your Baby’s!—Health by Visiting a Periodontist in Pembroke Pines

Pregnancy can lead to several changes in your body; it can alter your hormones, modify your dietary habits, and put your oral health at risk. Still, while gum disease is common during these times, it’s also preventable.

By maintaining good oral hygiene and getting the right care from a Village Square Dental professional, you can maintain a healthy smile for both you and your baby. Contact us today if you’re due for a checkup!