Worried About Pregnancy Gingivitis? Here’s How to Prevent It!

Pregnancy can be such a beautiful thing. If you’re expecting a bundle of joy, there are likely numerous things that need to be done in preparation for the arrival of your little one. Even though maintaining a healthy smile is probably not high on your to-do list, it most certainly should be. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can wreak havoc on your oral health, which is why it’s incredibly important to take special care of your teeth and gums. Read on to learn more about pregnancy gingivitis and what you can do to prevent it.

What Is Pregnancy Gingivitis?

Do you notice any blood or pain while cleaning your teeth? If so, you may have gingivitis. It’s a common type of gum disease that develops from bacteria buildup on the teeth. Since your progesterone hormone levels are high during pregnancy, you’re more vulnerable to developing the bacterial plaque that can attack your gums.

Pregnancy gingivitis most commonly occurs between the second and eighth month, reaching its peak during the third trimester. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms as they could indicate you have it:

• Swollen, tender, and puffy gums
• Bleeding gums
• Receding gums
• Bad breath (halitosis)

How to Keep Your Gums Healthy

While you can’t control your hormones, there are several steps you can take to lower your chances of developing pregnancy gingivitis. Some of those include:

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Make sure you’re staying on top of your oral hygiene routine! You should be brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Don’t forget to floss once a day as well. It’s an essential (but often overlooked) step that helps eliminate any trapped food particles and bacteria. For added protection, you can incorporate an ADA-approved mouthwash into your regimen and rinse with it once a day.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Your diet affects your oral health more than you may think. Ideally, you should stick to a diet full of nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and dairy products. Drink plenty of water and stay away from sugary, starchy, and acidic foods. Not only will these tips keep your smile in tip-top shape, but they can benefit your overall health!

Gargle with Saltwater

If you notice some swelling or bleeding while you brush, consider adding a salt gargle to your routine. The salt can help reduce inflammation from gingivitis and potentially heal your gums. To use this approach, dilute one teaspoon of salt into one cup of warm water and rinse your mouth with the mixture.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

The best way to prevent gingivitis is by visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. Being pregnant is not a reason to miss your appointments. In fact, it’s even more important to attend them when you’re expecting! Your dentist will monitor your oral health and spot issues before they turn into complications.

Don’t put your oral health on the back burner while pregnant. By following the tips outlined above, you can keep your smile and baby as healthy as can be!

About the Practice

At EPO Dental Specialists, we offer advanced dentistry services for patients nearby. Our team of specialists in endodontics, periodontics, and orthodontics are passionate about providing quality and personalized treatments for everyone that walks through our doors. If you think you may have pregnancy gingivitis, don’t hesitate to give us a call. You can make an appointment via our website or call (972) 479-1200.