dental_serDr. Arthur Kezian

 

dr_t_child4Dr. Narine Tashjian

Pregnancy Gingivitis

Pregnancy gingivitis is common during pregnancy because hormonal changes during pregnancy may exaggerate the body's normal response to dental plaque. This hormonal increase exaggerates the way the gum tissues react to the bacteria in plaque, resulting in an increased likelihood that a pregnant woman will develop pregnancy gingivitis if her daily plaque control is not adequate. Pregnancy generally worsens any existing gum problems, sometimes dramatically. However, most cases of pregnancy gingivitis can be prevented with proper oral hygiene.

Symptoms of Pregnancy Gingivitis

There are a few symptoms of gum disease to keep an eye out for. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible.

  • Tender, swollen gums
  • Red or purple-red gums
  • Gums that look shiny
  • Bleeding gums after brushing or flossing
  • Persistent bad breath
  • A bad taste in the mouth that won’t go away
  • Mouth sores

Pregnancy Tumor

Sometimes a large lump with deep red pinpoint markings on it forms on inflamed gum tissue, usually near the upper gum line. The red lump glistens, may bleed and crust over, and can make eating and speaking difficult and cause discomfort. These growths are called pregnancy tumors and can occur at any time during the course of pregnancy, though they usually occur during the second trimester.
Don't let the term, pregnancy "tumor" worry you. These growths are not cancerous nor can they be spread to others. A pregnancy tumor is an extreme inflammatory reaction to a local irritation (such as food particles or plaque). The tumors occur in up to 10% of pregnant women and often in women who also have pregnancy gingivitis.
Pregnancy tumors are also known by several other names including pyogenic granuloma, granuloma of pregnancy, lobular capillary hemangioma, and pregnancy epulides.

Treatments for Pregnancy Tumors

A pregnancy tumor usually disappears on its own after the baby's birth. However, if the tumor interferes with eating, your dentist or periodontist may choose to remove it. This involves a simple procedure performed under local anesthesia. It should be kept in mind that even if the tumor is removed during pregnancy, it redevelops in about half the cases. If the lump is not removed, your dentist will try to determine the possible cause that triggered the tumor's development such as built up plaque and remove it.
You can help prevent or reduce the likelihood that a pregnancy tumor will develop by following good oral hygiene habits at home (brushing twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste, flossing once a day, using an antimicrobial mouth rinse) during your pregnancy.

What can you do to manage your swollen gums better?

Good dental care is essential during pregnancy. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. A soft toothbrush may cause less irritation to your gums. You should also keep your scheduled professional cleanings and discuss any problems with your dentist.
If gingivitis is left unchecked it may lead to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. Periodontitis during pregnancy increases the chance of preterm birth. The good news is that with good oral hygiene and routine professional cleanings, there should be nothing for you to worry about.
Here are a few things that you can do to manage swollen gums and have healthier oral hygiene:

  • Have at least one oral checkup with your dentist during pregnancy
  • Use a daily or periodic warm salt water rinse (1 teaspoon to 1 cup)
  • Brush your teeth twice per day, especially after vomiting from morning
  • sickness
  • Practice good nutrition

Your gums usually return to normal following the delivery of your baby. The bleeding and sensitivity should diminish. If swelling and irritation continue after delivery or get worse during your pregnancy, contact your dentist.

Office Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 6:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am - 2:00pm
Tuesday & Thursday: Evening Appointments

*Any emergency request will be given priority.