Gingivitis during pregnancy is a common occurrence and can be treated during pregnancy with good oral hygiene. Pregnancy gingivitis is caused by a bacterial growth on your teeth that results in the buildup of plaque and may cause pain and bleeding through inflammation and swelling. We also recommend that women who are pregnant should have a periodontal exam as part of prenatal care.
Hormones in your body are changing during pregnancy and can affect your bodies ability to handle dental plaque. Generally, a little extra care during your oral hygiene routine will go a long way in helping to reduce and/or eliminate the problem. We recommend brushing at least two times a day, and flossing at least once a day. Sounds like the usual recommendation, right? On top of that, we also recommend using a good oral mouthwash to help kill bacteria. Using an antiseptic mouthwash about once a day will help manage your pregnancy gingivitis.
[dt_quote type=”blockquote” font_size=”big” animation=”none” background=”plain”]”Women who are pregnant should have a periodontal exam as part of prenatal care.”[/dt_quote]
If you already have gingivitis going into your pregnancy, chances are it will get worse during pregnancy if you do not get treatment. Keep in mind that it is the bacteria in plaque that causes gingivitis by infecting the gum tissue and not the hormonal changes. The hormonal changes merely affect your bodies ability to handle the dental plaque buildup.
Best Methods To Prevent Pregnancy Gingivitis
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[dt_list_item image=””]Brushing your teeth at least 2 times day but 3 times a day will help even more.[/dt_list_item]
[dt_list_item image=””]Floss and use an antiseptic mouthwash every day.[/dt_list_item]
[dt_list_item image=””]If you suffer from morning sickness, rinsing your mouth out with water frequently to neutralize the acid in your mouth caused by vomiting.[/dt_list_item]
[dt_list_item image=””]If brushing your teeth makes your morning sickness worse, brush without the toothpaste but be sure use an anti-plaque fluoride mouthwash after you brush. Once you are able, brush your teeth with toothpaste.[/dt_list_item]
[dt_list_item image=””]A healthy diet is a big part of health and foods with plenty of B12 and Vitamin C can help.[/dt_list_item]
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Conclusion
If your pregnancy gingivitis symptoms are not going away you can call us at Eagle Rock Dental Care to schedule an appointment or make an appointment online. We have locations in Idaho Falls, Rexburg, and Arco.
