Pregnant Or Planning To Be?

By Tongela Williams, DDS

A Periodontal Evaluation Should Be Part Of Your Prenatal Care

Women may experience increased gingivitis or pregnancy gingivitis beginning in the second or third month of pregnancy that increases in severity throughout the eighth month. During this time, some women may notice swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness in the gum tissue.

In some cases, gums swollen by pregnancy gingivitis can react strongly to irritants and form large lumps. These growths, called pregnancy tumors, are not cancerous and are generally painless.

Studies have shown a relationship between periodontal disease and pre-term, low-birth-weight babies. Any infection, including periodontal infection, is cause for concern during pregnancy. In fact, pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small. If you’re planning to become pregnant, be sure to include a periodontal evaluation as part of your prenatal care.

If you experience any of the following symptoms below, contact a periodontist right away:

Bleeding gums during brushing