Does pregnancy cause gum disease?

Does pregnancy cause gum disease?

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your gums more vulnerable to plaque, leading to inflammation and bleeding. This is also called pregnancy gingivitis or gum disease.

Will gum disease go away after pregnancy?

Although the gingivitis generally subsides shortly after birth, it should nonetheless be periodically monitored by your dentist (during and after pregnancy), in order to prevent the gingivitis from turning into the more serious (and irreversible) form known as periodontitis.

How do you get rid of pregnancy gum disease?

Treatments for pregnancy gingivitis You may be prescribed oral antibiotics that fight bacterial infection. There are also prescription-strength mouthwashes that can treat gum disease. In advanced cases, surgery is an option. Make sure your dentist knows about any allergies to medications you may have.

Can bad teeth affect pregnancy?

Pregnancy may make women more prone to periodontal (gum) disease and cavities. Oral health may be considered an important part of prenatal care, given that poor oral health during pregnancy can lead to poor health outcomes for the mother and baby.

Is gingivitis common in pregnancy?

Between 60% & 70% of women experience gingivitis while pregnant. Pregnancy gingivitis is very similar to the gingivitis that occurs outside of pregnancy and can include a mild inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup, with red and sore gums that bleed when probed.

Can periodontitis cause miscarriage?

Effects of gum disease on a growing fetus range depending upon the severity and timing of infection. Periodontal disease in an expectant mother can even lead to miscarriage or stillbirth. And the cause can be as simple as gestational gingivitis—something that is easily overlooked, even by doctors.

Why does pregnancy cause dental problems?

High levels of the hormones progesterone and estrogen during pregnancy can temporarily loosen the tissues and bones that keep your teeth in place. This can make your teeth loose. Periodontal disease (also called periodontitis or gum disease). If gingivitis is untreated, it can lead to periodontal disease.

Is periodontitis bad during pregnancy?

Pregnancy and Periodontal Disease Teeth with little bone support can become loose and may eventually have to be extracted. Periodontitis has also been associated with poor pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight.

Does periodontitis affect pregnancy?

Women who are pregnant may be at an increased risk of pathological dental conditions, such as periodontitis. This is associated with complications for both the mother and baby, including the potential for the mother to lose teeth as well as an increased risk of preterm birth or low birth weight for the baby.

Can gingivitis be cured while pregnant?

Most pregnancy gingivitis goes away after the birth, leaving you to worry about other things, like the dental health of your new baby.

How gum disease can impact pregnancy?

Women who develop severe mouth infections and suffer from bleeding gums when they are pregnant have a greater chance of delivering their babies preterm if they don’t treat the infection. Up to 70% of women develop inflammation of the gums, or gingivitis, during their pregnancy. It’s commonly referred to as pregnancy gingivitis.

How can gum disease affect your pregnancy?

Research indicates that women with periodontal disease are three to five times more likely to have a baby born preterm compared to women without any form of gum disease. Women are more susceptible to gingivitis when pregnant and should follow their regular brushing habits, and continue with dental cleanings and examinations.

How to prevent gum disease during your pregnancy?

How to Prevent Gum Disease During Pregnancy Avoid Harsh Cleaning Techniques and See Your Dentist. Most women need to adjust their oral care routine to be gentler on their more sensitive gums. A Time of Systemic Changes. A Self-Propagating Condition. 2 Steps to Preventing Gum Disease During Pregnancy. Common Oral Hygiene Changes During Pregnancy. Healthy Mouth, Happy Mama.

Does gum disease ever go away?

However, you can expect a gum infection to go away on its own without any medical treatments or prescribed medications if: You do not suffer from weakened immune system. There are some diseases associated with this health problem, such as the HIV or even a severe flu. You do not have diabetes.