I'm Pregnant: Am I at Risk for Periodontal Disease?

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but there are always new issues to tackle when your body undergoes a big change. You might be thinking a lot about your physical and mental health at this time, but did you know that your oral health is also important to consider during pregnancy? 

At Ueno Center Dental Specialists, we take the link between pregnancy and gum disease seriously. We want to ensure all of our patients are safe and well, and that’s why we believe it’s important to let patients who are or are thinking about becoming pregnant understand the risks associated with this link.  

Jeremy K. Ueno, DMD, and our other team members are dedicated to helping you at whatever stage of pregnancy and/or periodontal disease you’re experiencing. We’re serious about our commitment to our patients and to helping them live the best lives possible. 

Keep reading to learn more and consider making an appointment at our office. 

Periodontal disease and pregnancy

You might be wondering if the increased risk for gum disease during pregnancy is even real. Unfortunately, around 60-70% of pregnant women experience gingivitis, which is the first stage of periodontal disease. The link is real, and it’s serious. 

This happens for a number of reasons. Pregnancy weakens your natural immunity, which helps protect you from minor issues. Gum disease is one of these, and if it’s not treated properly, it can worsen immensely. 

Another reason is your hormones change dramatically during pregnancy, which can make it easier for your gums to become inflamed. 

A good rule of thumb is to look for bleeding gums. Sensitivity, recession in the gum line, and bad breath are also symptoms. Keep an eye out for these, and if you notice them, make an appointment with us immediately.

Additional dangers associated with this link 

While gingivitis can be painful, it’s usually easy to treat, especially if we get to it early. But pregnancy can throw a wrench in the works as you’re trying to manage this condition, and without treatment, it can easily develop into its more dangerous, advanced stage, periodontitis. 

When you have gum disease during your pregnancy, you and your fetus are at risk. Preeclampsia (a condition marked by high blood pressure) is much more common in pregnancies that also feature gum disease. 

Gum disease increases the C-reactive protein levels, which can lead to preeclampsia. This condition can be very risky for your pregnancy. 

And low birth weight and premature birth are also connected with gum disease. The condition increases the compound prostaglandin in your body, which can lead to these effects. 

Managing the risk: Avoiding gum disease during pregnancy 

As you can see, gum disease is not only dangerous for you but also for your pregnancy. Because of this, take extra precautions with your oral health during this time. Here are some ways you can mitigate the risk: 

• Take your oral routine seriously by brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and using nonalcoholic, fluoridated mouthwash once a day 
• Clean your mouth after vomiting if you experience morning sickness
• Eat foods that promote oral health, such as yogurt, fresh fruits, and vegetables
• Avoid foods that cause tooth decay or gum disease, such as sugary snacks and sodas. 
• Visit the dentist regularly, and make an appointment if you notice the symptoms of gum disease

You can avoid gum disease while pregnant

While prevalent in this demographic, gum disease in pregnant people isn’t a given. You can stave off the condition by taking care of yourself, and if you do experience it, you can get help.

Call us today to make an appointment at our office in Campbell, California, or book an appointment online. We look forward to meeting you.