Pregnancy and Oral Health: Risks for Developing Periodontal Disease
Posted on 10/24/2022 by Hilton Israelson, DDS
Did you know that pregnancy may make women more prone to periodontal disease? Research displays that pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing gingivitis and other forms of periodontal disease. It can lead to several poor health outcomes for the mother and baby. This blog post will discuss the risks associated with pregnancy and oral health. It will also provide tips for preventing periodontal disease during pregnancy.
Increased Levels of Hormones Can Cause the Body To Produce More Plaque
Pregnant women are susceptible to gum disease because of the increased levels of hormones in their bodies. These hormones cause the body to produce more plaque, leading to inflammation and bleeding of the gums. Inflammation will also cause the gums to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth and increasing the risk for tooth decay. Pregnant women should pay attention to their oral health. They should brush and floss regularly and see their dentist for regular checkups.
Pregnancy Changes the Way Blood Flows Through the Body
When pregnant, your blood vessels dilate, and your heart pumps more blood to supply the extra oxygen and nutrients your baby needs. This increased circulation can make your gums more sensitive to bleeding. Pregnancy also causes changes in the levels of hormones in your body, which can increase inflammation. Brushing teeth daily and flossing once daily are best.
Pregnant Women Are More Likely To Develop Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a condition that can occur during pregnancy, increasing the risk of developing periodontal disease. Dry mouth occurs when there is a decrease in saliva production. Saliva is essential for oral health because it helps remove food and plaque from teeth and neutralizes acids in the mouth. When less saliva is available, the mouth is more likely to become dry, which can lead to an increase in plaque buildup and a higher risk of developing gum disease.
Contact our dental office for regular checkups during pregnancy. Our dentists will help you to ensure your smile is healthy throughout pregnancy.
Did you know that pregnancy may make women more prone to periodontal disease? Research displays that pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing gingivitis and other forms of periodontal disease. It can lead to several poor health outcomes for the mother and baby. This blog post will discuss the risks associated with pregnancy and oral health. It will also provide tips for preventing periodontal disease during pregnancy.