|
During pregnancy, we experience an increase amount of estrogen and progesterone. These hormones promote many changes in our body, including increasing our chance of getting gingivitis. Red swollen and bleeding gums characterize gingivitis. Bacteria and plaque in our mouths cause it. Due to hormones, the amount of bacteria in plaque increases in our mouths during pregnancy. Hormones are also responsible for swelling because of the exaggerated response of the immune system. This response is more prevalent in the second and third trimester of pregnancy. However, it decreases during the ninth month of pregnancy. After pregnancy, your hormones return to normal and so will you gums. Don't fret.
More than half of pregnant women have some form of gingivitis. If you practiced good oral hygiene before pregnancy, your risk of gingivitis decreases. However, the risk is still high. In order to prevent gingivitis, you have to practice good oral hygiene during pregnancy. This may be difficult because some of us find that the toothpaste or toothbrush may cause nausea and vomiting, but it is necessary. To prevent gingivitis, do the following:
* Continue to visit your dentist for regular checkups.
* If you need any fillings or any other type of dentist office procedure, wait until after the first trimester and before the third trimester.
* Continue your daily routine. Brush three times a day for two to three minutes. Floss everyday. Change toothpaste if it causes nausea.
* Ask your dentist if you are following the right brushing routine. It may sound simple, but you may be using the wrong technique when you brush your teeth. Or you may not be brushing your teeth long enough. Or you may not be brushing your teeth often enough. You may be using the wrong type of toothbrush. Discuss it with your dentist.
* Try using electric toothbrushes or plaque reducing mouthwashes. This reduces the amount of plaque, thus preventing gingivitis.
* Chew sugarless gum. This increases the amount of saliva in your mouth without contributing to the risk of gingivitis.
If you do find you gums are bleeding and swelling it is important to visit your dentist. He or she could provide tips and medication to reduces the swelling or bleeding. You should probably visit your dentist at least twice during the duration of your pregnancy. It may take a long time to notice results in your gums because during pregnancy it takes a long time for you to see results, but it is improving. You will see these improvements after birth.
If you leave gingivitis untreated during pregnancy, it may effect your unborn child. The bacteria may causes premature labor. The bacteria may cause a hormone called prostaglandin to increase in your body: this is partially responsible for inducing labor. In addition to this, you may lose your teeth and cause damage to your gums.
You should practice good dental hygiene before and after pregnancy. After birth, your chances of getting gingivitis significantly decreases so it is not permanent unless you don't practice good dental hygiene normally. Consult your dentist if you have any questions.
| 
