Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy

What You Should Know About Periodontal Disease During Pregnancy

Gum disease can be a problem for any person, but pregnancy increases the flow of blood through the gums. Hormone levels fluctuate drastically causing problems regulating oral health. Web MD says pregnant women with gum disease are up to seven times likely to go into labor early and deliver. Moms can develop complications like infections and pre-eclampsia with preterm birth. Early delivery poses numerous problems for the baby, including breathing issues, sensitivity to light and touch, feeding troubles, problems digesting milk, and issues with senses like hearing or eyesight.

The infants born early are usually behind other children of the same age. These babies often reach milestones later and can show delays in motor skills, cognitive growth, and have problems socializing with other children from infancy to adulthood. Since early detection is a key factor in treating periodontal disease, it is important to contact our office if you notice any of the symptoms of poor gum health.

What is a Pregnancy Tumor?

Sometimes, women between the third and sixth month of pregnancy develop what we call a pregnancy tumor. These bumps are swollen areas you might find at the top of the gum where the gum and teeth meet. The tissue swells and turns deep red. One way to distinguish these tumors from other problems is the way they shine. Pregnancy tumors are common in the middle of pregnancy, but they can occur at any stage. Women may find eating and drinking a problem if one of these bumps swells up. The tumor can burst open bleeding whether you are brushing your teeth or eating. When the bump is bleeding, it can form a crystalline covering to stop the bleeding temporarily, but these tumors will continue to bleed with movement and daily activity causing pain and discomfort. 

These growths are nothing to worry about as far as cancer because they are benign. A periodontist can remove the growth with a little numbing medicine, but it may come back. The good news is these tumors most often disappear after the birth of the baby. This fact does not mean it is alright to avoid going to the periodontist for a checkup during your pregnancy. It is important to allow the professional with the training, tools, and experience to decide if letting the pregnancy tumor go til after birth is the right course of action in your particular situation. Each pregnancy and mother is different, so only the guidance of a licensed, qualified oral health care provider is the appropriate action. 

How to Prevent Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease

Regular checkups are one of the most important ways to prevent problems with gum disease. Although these exams may not prevent the disease, they can alert patients to the problem allowing them to attack the issue proactively with the advice from an oral health care professional who can recommend treatment ideas like mouth rinses, a change in floss or toothbrushes, antibiotic courses, and plaque removal to prevent the spread of the problem. 

About the Author

Dr. Marichia is a leading Periodontist in Nassau County NY. Learn more by visiting her website at NassauCountyPeridontist.com