Fact Sheet Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy
Brushing for Two
If you’re planning to become pregnant
or suspect you’re already pregnant,
it’s important that you see a dentist
right away. Pregnancy may cause
unexpected oral health changes due
to hormones—particularly an increase
in estrogen and progesterone—which
can exaggerate the way in which
gum tissues react to plaque. Research
continues to show that overall
health and oral health coincide,
so it’s especially important for you
to maintain good oral hygiene
throughout your pregnancy. Visiting
your dentist will allow him or her to
assess your oral condition and map
out a dental plan for the remainder of
your pregnancy.
1. How does plaque build-up affect me?
When plaque isn’t removed, it can cause
gingivitis—red, swollen, tender gums
that are more likely to bleed. So-called
“pregnancy gingivitis” affects most
pregnant women to some degree and
generally begins to surface as early as
the second month of pregnancy. If you
already have gingivitis, the condition
is likely to worsen during pregnancy.
Untreated gingivitis can lead to
periodontitis, a more serious form of
gum disease that includes bone loss.
2. How does gingivitis affect my baby’s health?
Research suggests a link between
pre-term delivery, low birthweight
babies, and gingivitis. Excessive bacteria
can enter the bloodstream through
your gums; the bacteria can travel to
the uterus, triggering the production of
chemicals called prostaglandins, which
are suspected to induce premature labor.
3. How can I prevent gingivitis?
You can prevent gingivitis by keeping
your teeth clean, especially near the
gumline. You should brush with fluoride
toothpaste at least twice a day and after
each meal when possible. You also should
floss each day. Good nutrition keeps the
oral cavity healthy and strong; in particular,
you should get plenty of vitamins C
and B12. More frequent cleanings from
the dentist also will help control plaque
and prevent gingivitis.
4. What are pregnancy tumors?
Pregnant women are at risk for developing
pregnancy tumors—inflammatory,
non-cancerous growths that develop
between the teeth or when swollen gums
become irritated. These localized growths
or swellings are believed to be related to
excess plaque. Normally, the tumors are
left alone and will usually shrink on their
own after the baby’s birth; however, if
a tumor is uncomfortable and interferes
with chewing, brushing, or other oral
hygiene procedures, your dentist may
decide to remove it.
5. Are there any dental procedures I should avoid?
Routine exams and cleanings can be performed
throughout pregnancy; however,
non-emergency procedures should only
be performed during the second trimester
of pregnancy. Dental emergencies that
create severe pain can be treated during
any trimester, but your obstetrician should
be consulted during any emergency that
requires anesthesia or whenever medication
is prescribed. X-rays should only be
taken for emergency situations. Lastly,
elective and cosmetic procedures should
be postponed until after the baby’s birth.
Because every woman is different, it’s
best to discuss and determine a treatment
plan with your dentist.
We believe the best dentistry is the least amount of treatment necessary to achieve optimum oral and dental health.