It's no secret that a woman's body undergoes some major changes during pregnancy. From new aches and pains to morning sickness and mobility issues, pregnancy comes with many new challenges. Expecting women also have an increased risk of developing oral health issues. Below, a few of these are discussed in more detail, as well as some methods dentists suggest for preventing and managing them.

Oral Health Concerns for Pregnant Women

Pregnancy gingivitis is one of the most common oral health changes. The gums are more sensitive when carrying a child and will often redden, swell, or bleed, especially after brushing or flossing. This is likely because of the natural hormonal disruptions that are part of pregnancy. While most occurrences of pregnancy gingivitis are minor, there are cases where bacterial buildup from infected gums can develop into periodontal disease and enter the bloodstream, causing pre-term labor and low birth weight.

A pregnancy granuloma is another potential complication to be aware of. It is a small tumor that grows on the gums of an expectant mother, but it is not cancerous. Pregnancy granulomas look like red nodules, typically along the gumline. Though benign, they can be uncomfortable, especially when eating or drinking, and they can sometimes bleed and form a crust.

Prevention & Treatment

Good oral hygiene practices are essential during pregnancy. Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once daily, preferably before going to bed. Let your dentist know that you're pregnant so they can monitor the condition of the mouth and identify any potential problem areas.

A dentist can also help with the effects of pregnancy gingivitis. A deep cleaning that removes bacteria from the pockets between the gums will minimize the dangers of the condition and decrease pain and swelling.

In most instances, pregnancy granulomas will heal on their own. If the granuloma bleeds excessively, your doctor may want to remove it and cauterize the area to help make eating, drinking, and speaking more comfortable.

Your dentist should be a part of your pregnancy care team. Allen S. Braumiller Jr. DDS, PC, has been serving Coweta, OK, and the surrounding communities for more than three decades. Dr. Braumiller and his team provide comprehensive dental services, including preventative oral exams, fillings, dental crowns, and gum disease treatment. Call (918) 486-6516 or visit their website to schedule an appointment.