You may have thought that during your pregnancy, only your stomach would grow as each month went by, but actually your gums can be affected as well.
Let’s rewind: refresh by reviewing the blog Proper Oral Hygiene Techniques Part 1, posted on February 19, 2012.
In a nut shell, Gingivitis is a measure of how red, swollen and easily the gums bleed when ‘touched’.
We want our gums to be pink, tight and not bleed by mere touch. Do you remember the analogy of the rare steak vs. the well done one? A bit of a crude analogy, but it gets the point across.
When you’re pregnant, some women notice that their gums are more red, swollen and bleed quite readily when they’re brushed or flossed.
This is called Pregnancy Gingivitis. Here are two common occurrences:
1) Usually starts at the end of the first trimester.
2) Occurs usually near the front of the mouth.
It’s thought that it is the higher levels of hormones during pregnancy that account for these changes, particularly the hormone Progesterone. This rise may affect certain bacteria that cause Gingivitis in the second trimester.
Pregnancy Tumors
In a small percentage of women (2-10 %), it is common to get large gingival growths near the upper front gum line, however, these can be found elsewhere in the mouth too. They’re called Pregnancy Tumors…the clinical name is Pyogenic Granuloma.
Facts about Pregnancy Tumors
They’re large, red and ‘angry’ looking growths that are just that…growths; not cancerous tumors. They’re not dangerous, but can be a little uncomfortable.
These growths normally go away after delivery.
Pregnancy Gingivitis and Pregnancy Tumors go hand in hand. The question is: How do we prevent them?
The best way:
- Practice good oral hygiene i.e. proper brushing and flossing.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Proper nutrition (protein) and vitamins A, C and D and the mineral calcium.
Have a happy and healthy pregnancy!
Along with General Dentistry, Dr. F. Keshavarz Dentistry practice is home to a variety of dental specialists able to look after all of your dental needs. Give us a call at 905.791.3867 to learn more.
About Dr. F. Keshavarz Dentistry
You will find our dentists and office staff to be friendly, gentle, safe and accommodating and diverse in nature. Our staff takes the time to make each person feel comfortable and treated with exceptional care.
