Newly Pregnant?

Your body is going through so many changes that it is more important than ever to look after your teeth. Hormone changes during pregnancy can affect your preventative care, and many pregnant women notice that their gums are red, inflamed and sometimes bleed when they brush their teeth. 

The swelling and inflamed gums are referred to as ‘pregnancy gingivitis’ and can start as soon as the second month of pregnancy. The hormone progesterone can be around 10 times higher than normal during pregnancy, affecting the body’s response to toxins as a result of plaque build-up. Women are therefore more susceptible to developing periodontal disease when these hormonal fluctuations occur.

Some women also experience a growth on their gums known as a pregnancy granuloma that are red nodules, usually found on the upper gums. While they are not dangerous, they can cause discomfort. 

Other problems which may occur include tooth erosion as a result of constant exposure to acid from severe morning sickness and dry mouth is another major complaint, but can be easily remedied by drinking plenty of water and using sugarless candies to stimulate saliva flow.

Come in and ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy during your pregnancy.