Gingivitis during pregnancy
GINGIVITIS DURING PREGNANCY CAN BE PREVENTED BY PROPER ORAL HYGIENE
During pregnancy significant changes take place in the oral cavity as well. Expectant mothers often experience gingivitis, mild or even serious swelling of the gums. As a result of gingivitis during pregnancy, the patients’ gums become inflamed and red, often bleed, the movement range of teeth increases. However, proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help in preventing inflammation. I consider it very important to teach and motivate expectant mothers to properly care for their teeth during pregnancy. If they do not learn this before or during pregnancy, gingivitis and swelling of the gums may worsen as the pregnancy progresses. I suggest to visit a specialist during pregnancy as well every 3 months, but it is advisable to make an appointment immediately if they notice any changes in the mouth.
WHY DOES PREGNANCY AFFECT OUR TEETH?
It is because hormonal changes during expectancy also affect the oral cavity. One of the most frequent major problems, gingivitis may be caused by the oestrogen receptors found in the mucous membrane of the mouth. However, problems occurring at this time can be cured by professional dental hygiene treatments. Moreover, close to 10 per cent of expecting mothers may experience so-called benevolent pregnancy tumours, which are not cancerous. These small protuberances in the oral cavity mostly disappear by themselves after giving birth. However, it is important to visit a professional in case of any changes in the oral cavity. A further problem is the swelling of the gums, which means the growth of gingival area, but luckily, this is less frequent and affects less expectant mothers than gingivitis.
Therefore the importance of proper oral care and regular dental hygiene treatments are paramount during pregnancy as the problems mentioned can be cured to a great extent.
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