Hormone and eating habit changes are the big factors for developing gum disease and cavities during pregnancy. If you experience discomfort in your gums, such as any pain, swelling, or bleeding, make sure you visit your dentist and don’t leave the condition untreated. Poor oral health during pregnancy can lead to poor health outcomes for the mother and baby.
Gum Disease
Due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, gingivitis or gum inflammation may occur and aggravate, resulting in red, swollen, and sometimes bleeding gums. If gingivitis is not taken care of, the infected gums may recede over time, the bones that support the teeth can be lost, and the teeth can become loose and may eventually have to be extracted. Periodontal disease during pregnancy may also lead to undesirable pregnancy outcomes such as pre-term birth and a low-birth-weight baby. These babies are prone to have developmental problems, asthma, ear infections, and are at increased risk of infant death.
Cavities
Pregnant women may also be prone to cavities as a result of changes in their eating habits. Without proper oral hygiene, cavity-causing bacteria can feed on food residues on the teeth, resulting in plaque and eventually cavities. If cavities are left untreated, and the oral hygiene is poorly practiced, these cavity-causing bacteria can be transmitted from the mother to their developing babies and can lead to early childhood cavities.