During pregnancy, about half of women experience a symptom that is called pregnancy gingivitis. Gingivitis is defined as inflammation of the gums, and is typically caused with the accumulation of plaque and tartar, and the bacteria associated with it.
Pregnant women are at greater risk for gingivitis because of multiple factors. One of these is that there is generally more blood volume in the body, more blood flow to the gingiva, and additionally the progesterone hormone that comes with pregnancy causes an increased response to the bacteria in the mouth.
In order to keep pregnancy gingivitis at bay, ensure that you are flossing daily. Additionally, keep up with your dental hygiene visits every six months, and take the full two minutes to brush your teeth. You may have bleeding during flossing however keep it up! Typically, electric toothbrushes also help greatly in keeping the oral cavity clean. And of course, if you notice anything abnormal, feel free to talk to your dentist!
Sincerely,
Dr. Lisel Balk
General dentist, Needham office
