No woman likes her gums to bleed; they are a nuisance to anyone who appreciates oral hygiene. Those red, bloated, gums with a tint of redness on the corners indicate pregnancy gingivitis. What is pregnancy gingivitis? It is a disease of the gums with the symptoms indicated above. It happens to females during pregnancy, and about half of pregnant women suffer from it. It so happens that during pregnancy progesterone (a female hormone) level increases in the body, which increases your gum’s sensitivity to the bacteria that is present in the plaque that forms on your teeth. Also, it leads to increased circulation of blood to mouth. Your gums therefore appear swelled and red.
There are also other issues that develop with it. Females may, sometimes form a benign nodule, called Pregnancy Tumor or Pyogenic Granuloma, on the gums. It often ruptures when you brush your teeth, and it begins to bleed. Do not worry; this tumor is not like the harmful, dangerous tumors you have heard of. It is completely harmless and is just a protrusion. They may also develop on any part of your body. They breed in proximity to gingivitis affected area and are smaller than an inch. It generally vanishes on its own after the birth of baby. If they do not, you may ask your dentist to cut it off
1. Can gum disease affect my pregnancy
Though it was claimed by the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology in 2009 that gum issues do not affect pregnancy, why allow them to breed into gingivitis or, further, periodontitis and bore your teeth! They do not affect pregnancy, but are very harmful for your teeth and gums.
2. What can I do
It is necessary that you develop good oral hygiene habits and visit your dentist regularly. Do not allow such diseases to develop in your mouth.
A. Oral hygiene begins with the basic- brush your teeth twice daily.
B. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles that won’t harm your gums.
C. Avoid toothpaste with very high fluoride content, but should have fluoride.
D. Flossing your teeth daily helps expel food particles between teeth
E.There’s a layer of tartar and plaque that develops on your teeth with regular eating. They don’t get off easily. You may have to visit a good dentist to get rid of the unwanted layers. Get a check up during pregnancy. Gum problems worsen during pregnancy; it is better to keep a check on your teeth and gums.
F. You should not fear a treatment if your dentist suggests you one. They are completely harmless. Your dentist will suggest you antibiotics that are safe during pregnancy. But do let him know that you are pregnant.
3. When should I call the dentist
Keep a check on the following symptoms and visit your dentist immediately if you experience the following symptoms:
A. Toothache: Be assured that toothache is a forewarning to a dental disease.
B. Bleeding gums: Visit your dentist immediately. It can be gingivitis.
C. Swollen gums
D. Loose teeth
F. Bad breath
G. Unwanted protrusion in your mouth- both painful and painless
