The Link Between Pregnancy And Gum Disease

Pregnancy causes no shortage of changes in the body and the mind of an expectant mother. Hormones are raging, which will cause all sorts of health issues. One of the lesser-known side effects of pregnancy is the damage it can do to your dental health!

Pregnancy Gingivitis

A very common dental issue we see in pregnant women is the damage done to the gum tissue. Increases in estrogen and progesterone (hormones that skyrocket during pregnancy) can lead to a condition known as ‘pregnancy gingivitis.’ You might begin to see the signs of this disorder as early as the second or third month of your pregnancy.

Gum disease and gingivitis are the result of poor dental hygiene habits. If left untreated, these issues can cause pain, swelling, and even eventual tooth loss. You can avoid suffering from pregnancy gingivitis by practicing good oral hygiene religiously throughout your pregnancy. Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time, with fluoride toothpaste. You also need to be flossing at least once a day, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. Lastly, and just as importantly, make sure you visit our office every 6 months (so, at least once during your pregnancy) for a dental cleaning and exam.

Consult Dr. Behnaz Raisdana at Auburn Family Dental for any other questions you may have regarding your oral health and pregnancy. It’s a good idea to let our office know that you’re expecting before you come in for your appointment. This will allow us to ensure the safety of your child throughout any procedure you may be having done.

To make an appointment, please contact our Wichita, KS office today!