Dental Problems and Pregnant Women

Pregnancy

Pregnancy has a huge impact on a woman’s all-around physical health, including her oral health. During this time, it is important to take special care of your dental hygiene. Let’s take a look at some of the most common dental problems found in women during pregnancy:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an extremely common problem in pregnant women. Majority of women would find their gums being inflamed, swollen or bleed during pregnancy. For some women, gingivitis may start developing as early as during the second month of pregnancy, and may become most severe during the eighth month. Often, this condition disappears after the baby’s birth.

Gingivitis during pregnancy is generally brought on by an increase in hormone levels, which may promote the growth of disease-causing bacteria. Changes in the immune system during pregnancy could affect the way your body reacts to the bacteria that cause gingivitis. This is another reason women develop gingivitis during pregnancy.

Tooth erosion

For many women, pregnancy may cause severe morning sickness, marked by frequent vomiting. This may cause erosion of the teeth enamel, which may lead to sensitivity. While it may seem like a good idea to brush right after vomiting, it is best to avoid doing so, because this can result in the erosion of the weakened enamel. For women experiencing morning sickness, it is important to consult a physician for additional medical advice.

Pregnancy granuloma

Another oral health problem that may affect women during pregnancy is a condition known as pregnancy granuloma or pregnancy tumor. It is a form of growth that occurs in the gums and affects about 2-10% of women during pregnancy.

This condition may start developing during the second trimester. It occurs as tiny, red nodules, typically on the upper gum line, and bleeds easily. Although the exact cause of this problem is unknown, poor oral hygiene could be a primary factor.

It is a must for pregnant women to maintain excellent oral hygiene and to visit the dentist more frequently during this period.