How Pregnancy Can Change Your Dental Health Part 1
December 7, 2009
During pregnancy, hormonal changes occur, resulting in changes to the mother’s gums. There is an increase in blood flow to the gums providing the bacteria with the nutrients it needs to develop gingivitis and pregnancy tumors. The gums are more susceptible to irritants such as plaque and calculus, which can cause noncancerous pregnancy tumors. These tumors generally form in between the teeth as a result of an immune response to the irritant. They are red and bleed easily. They need to be removed surgically.
Poor hygiene resulting in gingivitis has been linked to premature births and low birth weight babies. Gingivitis is a reversible bacterial infection of the gums. This infection can trigger the release of prostaglandins, which can signal the body to begin labor.