An old wives’ tale once said that women lost a tooth for every birth. In fact, while it’s true that pregnancy can impact a woman’s oral health, the reverse is also true: A woman’s oral health can have a significant impact on the health of her pregnancy and baby.

The increased levels of progesterone and estrogen can lead to mild inflammation of gum tissue. This inflammation is called pregnancy gingivitis and may lead to swollen or red gums and mild bleeding during brushing or flossing. Nearly ¾ of all pregnant women may suffer from pregnancy gingivitis, which usually decreases in the final trimester.

Gingivitis that existed before pregnancy may only get worse during pregnancy. Both pre-existing gingivitis and pregnancy-related gingivitis can deteriorate into periodontal disease. Periodontal or gum disease has been linked to serious complications during pregnancy including premature birth and babies with low birth weights. Women who have gum disease are at an estimated seven times the risk of these complications than women with healthier gum tissue.

Although biannual dental checkups are recommended for most people, only about 50 percent of pregnant women visit a dentist during their pregnancy. If you are pregnant, it is important that you visit our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist for a full checkup to ensure your gums are healthy and teeth are strong. Regular brushing after meals with a soft-bristled brush and daily flossing can help reduce plaque buildup and maintain gum health.

If you notice bleeding or swollen gums, contact our Los Angeles dentist for an assessment. More than your oral health may depend on it.

Source: Los Angeles Dentist

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