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Did you know that at least 40% of pregnant women develop gingivitis? As the mildest form of gum disease, gingivitis comes with some cumbersome symptoms. But the real threat is that it can lead to far worse conditions if left untreated. Find out how and why pregnant women are increasingly susceptible to gum disease and what you can do to manage the problem.
What Does Pregnancy Have to do with Gum Disease?
To understand this, it’s important to note that the gums are inextricably connected to the health of the body. This is why severe gum disease is linked to ailments like hypertension and heart disease. Ultimately, it’s an increase in progesterone brought about by pregnancy that boosts the growth of bacteria in your mouth. This extra bacteria often leads to gum disease.
Careful, Pregnancy Gingivitis is Contagious!
While it’s important to manage your own oral health when pregnant, it’s also imperative that you prevent spreading the disease to those around you. Here are ways it can be passed to others:
- Sharing dental tools like floss or toothbrushes
- Drinking after each other
- Kissing
- Eating after those who have gingivitis
If your gums are inflamed leading you to worry that you have gingivitis, take extra precautions to ensure you don’t spread the disease to loved ones.
What Should I Do to Prevent Pregnancy Gingivitis?
When you’re pregnant, your hormones are raging and it can be difficult to manage the surplus of bacteria in your mouth. Extra oral hygiene can help greatly in the effort to rid your mouth of cavity-causing bacteria. Since allowing this excess bacteria to pile up is a sure path to gum disease, making an additional effort to minimize the condition is a wise move. See the infographic for more tips.
Call Mavis Dental Centre with All Your Oral Care Needs
With two qualified dentists and a friendly staff, Mavis Dental Centre can provide all of your dental care needs. Whether you have questions about pregnancy gingivitis or some other issue, our staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and glad to help. Contact our Mississauga, ON office for more information.