Are you expecting a baby soon? If so, now more than ever is a time to pay close attention to your oral health. Oral hygiene is often partially reliant on your hormones, which can shift dramatically during your pregnancy. It can really have a major impact on your gums, which can lead to gingivitis. Here is some information about how pregnancy can affect your gum health:

What Is Gingivitis?

Bacteria that are found on the teeth cause gingivitis. This bacteria likes to breed on the gum line between the teeth and gums. This can lead to inflammation that can lead to bleeding, tooth loss, and periodontal disease.

How Does Pregnancy Impact the Gums?

After you become pregnant, your hormones begin to shift. One of the most noticeable changes is your level of progesterone. This hormone is going to increase and can cause additional bacterial growth in the mouth. This can occur throughout the entire pregnancy, which exacerbates the need to continued monitoring of your teeth and gums.

How Can Gingivitis Be Avoided During Pregnancy?

In order to best avoid gingivitis, you will need to be diligent with your oral hygiene. You will need to be extra vigilant when it comes to brushing and flossing. You should also see your dentist regularly for cleanings and treatment. Pay attention to any symptoms of gingivitis, namely swelling and bleeding. If you do notice any changes in your teeth and gums, be sure to let your dentist know immediately.

How Should Gingivitis Be Treated?

If you begin to notice you have symptoms of gingivitis, the first thing to do is see your dentist. He or she will place you on a treatment plan based on your needs. This can often included prescription mouthwashes as well as home remedies, such as swishing your mouth with salt water. You will need to be extra mindful to keep your teeth as clean as possible. You may also need to make some dietary changes to fight gingivitis.

Like anything else with pregnancy, you need to be very diligent about your health. Once you get a positive result on a pregnancy test, be sure to make an appointment with your dentist to talk about how best to care for your teeth and gums throughout your pregnancy. You may also want to go in for additional treatment if you and your dentist feel it is necessary in order to keep your gums in good health. Contact a clinic like Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to learn more.

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