Pregnancy and Oral Health

Due to changes in hormones, pregnant women might be more susceptible to oral health conditions, like gingivitis, tooth decay, and pregnancy tumors.

Pregnancy gingivitis affects nearly 40% of pregnant women and looks like:

  • Red and swollen gums
  • Sensitivity of gums and teeth
  • Bleeding after brushing or flossing

Gingivitis is early-stage gum disease, and without proper care, it can lead to more serious conditions like periodontitis. Periodontitis is a bacterial infection that attacks the tissue and bones supporting the teeth and, though the connection is unclear, is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes like low birth weight and preterm births. With a little extra care in your oral health routine, you can keep pregnancy gingivitis at bay. Recommendations include:

  • Spending more time brushing, focusing on the gum line
  • Using an antimicrobial mouthwash after brushing

Pregnant women might also be more susceptible to tooth decay, especially if they suffer from nausea or morning sickness. The acidity of vomit can weaken tooth enamel, so it’s important to rinse your mouth before brushing to make sure the acid is gone. It’s best to wait 30 minutes after rinsing before brushing your teeth, so that acid isn’t pushed further into the teeth and gums.

Another effect of pregnancy hormones on oral health is pregnancy tumors. They affect about five percent of pregnant women and are completely benign, but can cause discomfort. Symptoms include:

  • Small, berry-colored lumps at the gum line or between teeth, between .5 and 2.5 centimeters in size
  • Sometimes painful

Though these tumors go away on their own, and are not cancerous or harmful, they might be painful and can be removed, typically with a laser or cryosurgery.

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Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "We've loved working with Drs. Dodd & Denny for more than four years -- their bright, friendly office makes every trip a pleasure, from routine care to emergencies. They're careful to explain everything happening and to make sure we're comfortable and happy with their work, every single time, and take the time to build caring personal connections with each of us. These people enjoy their work and bringing their best to their customers. Highest recommendation from our family!"
    Ria Megnin
  • "If I could give them 10/5 stars I would. This place is really great and accommodating! I decided to take my normally chill baby to sit in his stroller while I got a cleaning and unfortunately my baby decided to be super fussy the entire time! The staff took turns passing him around and helped keep him calm. It was so nice of them. I was so embarrassed that he was fussy. Also they were super quick yet efficient, the dental hygienist did a really great job at cleaning my teeth.
    I would highly recommend this facility. I hate going to the dentist but I had such a good visit I'm not as anxious about my next cleaning in the months to come."
    Katie Gardner