The Importance of Preventing Gingivitis During Pregnancy

Gingivitis is a severe problem with many Americans. Pregnancy is one of the times when it flares up. Often it occurs around the second or third trimester and continues through the eighth month. The main symptoms are sore, swollen gums that bleed. This problem can affect both your health and the health of your unborn child.

It is important to keep your gums healthy because a number of studies published in The Journal of the American Dental Association have shown that pregnant women with chronic gum disease are four to seven times more likely to deliver premature babies.

One cause is the increased blood flow that happens while you are pregnant. During pregnancy, your blood flow actually increases by between 30% and 50%. This is your body's way of making sure your baby is given enough nutrients to grow and be healthy. This increased blood flow can also cause the gums to bleed, swell, and become tender.

Among the hormonal changes that come with pregnancy is an increase in the hormone, progesterone. This increase in progesterone makes it easier for the bacteria to grow in your gum tissue and makes the gum tissue more sensitive to plaque formation. Stress and diet are other factors. There are a number of lifestyle changes that you can do to help prevent gingivitis during your pregnancy.

Make sure you have a professional dental cleaning at least twice during your pregnancy. This is suggested by the American Dental Association to prevent problems. Make sure you make your dentist aware that you are pregnant so they can take precautions with any x-rays or anesthesia.

Brush your tongue and teeth at least twice a day using the technique shown to you by your dentist. Flossing is also important. Use a soft brush and do not over brush your gums. Use a plaque reducing mouthwash as well.

Since many pregnant women suffer from morning sickness, make sure you brush and rinse your mouth after you vomit. This will remove the acid and bacteria from your mouth and also make you feel much better.

One of the factors to keep gum tissue healthy is diet. Make sure your diet contains quality nutrition including plenty of Vitamin C in the form of fresh fruits and vegetables, good quality Calcium sources, and adequate protein. Vitamin C helps strengthen your gum tissue and reduces the chances of bleeding.

Drink plenty of pure, fresh water. It's good for your health of your gums and the whole body. Drinking water after you eat also helps wash the food and bacteria away. Avoid sugar, soda, and sweets for these foods are negative to healthy gums. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks for they make the gums more tender.

Last but not least, add activities that reduce your stress. High stress levels release the stress hormone, Cortisol, which increases inflammation in the body including your gums. Many people note that their problem with bleeding gums gets worse when their stress level goes up. Using all the methods we have discussed in this article will help you to have healthy gums throughout your pregnancy and for the rest of your life.