Pregnancy Gingivitis

During pregnancy, hormonal changes occur in the female body and the gums become more prone to infection (pregnancy sensitive gums). There is an increase in the complaints of pregnant women due to bleeding gums, redness, inflammation, or swelling in the gums. We usually call this condition “pregnancy gingivitis”.

The worst part is when a gum problem occurs, pregnant patients avoid brushing their teeth. This situation causes the problems to increase even more. But pregnant should know that oral care as recommended by the dentist, at least twice a day, is as important as treatment.

The Main Cause of Pregnancy Gingivitis

During pregnancy, gum problems usually begin in the 2nd month and reach the highest level in the 8th month. In this period, the most common cause of gum problems is neglected oral care. As a result, bacterial plaque accumulates on the teeth and gums. Bacterial plaque causes inflammation of the gums. The use of appropriate oral care products (eg, ADA approved;  Parodontax Antigingivitis Toothpaste, Reach Advanced Design Medium Manual Toothbrush, Oral-B Genius X Limited Powered Toothbrush and as a different choice: TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse, etc.) can be very beneficial for such cases.

In addition, the pregnant woman is constantly snacking. In this respect, if the pregnant woman does not rinse her mouth regularly, does not brush her teeth, does not use dental floss, or does not have tartar cleaning at regular intervals, gum problems may be inevitable.

From Tooth Loss to Premature Birth

During pregnancy, hormonal changes in the body can trigger inflammation of the gums. When the inflammation of the gums progresses, there may be a loss of gums, ligaments, and bones that support the tooth. When a pregnant neglects this situation, tooth loss may occur.

Studies have also shown that gum problems during pregnancy can cause premature or low-weight births.

“Pregnancy Tumor”

Due to hormonal changes, gingival enlargement, which we call a “pregnancy tumor”, can also be seen in pregnant individuals. These gingival enlargements usually go away on their own after birth.

However, when these swellings grow up to the chewing surfaces of the teeth, pain, and discomfort due to trauma occur. If the pregnant woman’s oral care is not sufficient and there is a gum infection, this picture may become even more severe.

Treatment of Pregnancy Gingivitis

It is not true that there should be no treatment for gum disease during pregnancy. On the contrary, dentists state that dental check-ups during pregnancy are much more important. Because during this period, pregnant women should pay more attention to their oral and dental health.

Women who are planning a pregnancy should take precautions regarding oral and dental health before becoming pregnant. For this, if any, inflammation of the gums and dental caries must be treated.

During pregnancy, there should be regular oral and dental examinations for control purposes. When necessary, treatment of gum-related problems should also be done. For non-emergency situations, the optimal treatment interval is between the 4th and 6th months of pregnancy.

In the presence of pain and infection in the gums, treatment is necessary regardless of the period of pregnancy. Thus, the pregnant woman’s quality of life and the chance of having a problem-free pregnancy period increase.