Pregnancy and Gingivitis

Sure you stopped smoking and drinking. But are you taking care of your teeth?

Actually dental health during pregnancy is a big deal. 

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recently published a report saying that gingivitis, cavities, and periodontitis can all adversely affect your baby.

What is Gingivitis?

This is bacteria which causes red, tender, and swollen gums that bleed easily. 

Pregnancy gingivitis occurs because the increase in the hormone progesterone during pregnancy causes an exaggerated response to the plaque that’s already in your mouth. “The reaction to those toxins and those poisons from the plaque build-up is increased,” according to Dr. Amanda Seay, Orbit for Kids gum spokesperson.

If you have a history of gingivitis, your risk of being affected during pregnancy increases.

Gingivitis is bacteria in the gums. This bacteria enters the blood streams and gives people who have it a low level of bacteria in the blood. 

Flossing

You can keep your gums healthy by brushing after every meal and flossing at least once a day. you can also use a mouthwash and tongue scraper

Regular Cleanings

You should be getting a cleaning every 6 months. Plaque builds up on your teeth and provides a place for bacteria to thrive. Get the plaque cleaned off and the dentist will also inspect your gums for periodontal disease at the same time.

Eat Healthy.

If you are going to have coffee with sugar or a soda, drink it down and don’t sip it over a long period. Keep up plenty of fruit and vegetables and stay away from the things your mother always told you to avoid1.

Chew gum and drink water.

“Saliva is the greatest natural defense mechanism that we have,”  If it’s been hours between brushing, chewing a sugar free gum with xylitol can increase the salivary flow which washes away food debris, neutralizes plaque acids, and keeps bacteria at bay. After a meal, drinking a glass of water can help too.

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