Treating Gum Disease During Pregnancy

If you’re pregnant with bleeding gums when you floss or brush, you’re not alone: 50% of expectant mothers experience this little-known pregnancy symptom known as pregnancy gingivitis. Although gum disease during pregnancy is very common, studies suggest women with severe gum disease are more likely to deliver prematurely than women with healthy gums. Dental care, just like taking your prenatal vitamins, is absolutely essential during pregnancy.

At the CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy in Brentwood, West LA Periodontists Dr. Alexandre Aalam and Dr. Alina Krivitsky can help put your mind at ease by diagnosing and treating your gum disease during pregnancy.

If you’re like many pregnant women, you’re wondering if dental work during pregnancy is safe. Don’t worry: dental care before and during pregnancy is not only considered safe, it is recommended to keep Mom and Baby happy and healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease During Pregnancy

Q: Is Pregnancy Gingivitis Gum Disease?

A: Yes, pregnancy gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. Gingivitis begins when bacteria in plaque builds up in your mouth, releasing toxins that irritate your gums. Gingivitis can progress to more serious gum disease (periodontitis) if left untreated. Severe gum disease is dangerous for both the mother and child.

Q: Do I Have to Treat My Gum Disease During Pregnancy?

A: Studies have found that women with periodontitis are three to seven times more likely to deliver prematurely than women with healthy gums. In fact, if you’re pregnant with severe gum disease, you’re just as likely to deliver prematurely as a heavy drinker or smoker. Furthermore, women with pregnancy gingivitis are much more likely to have a low-birth weight baby.

Q: Is Dental Care During Pregnancy Safe?

A: Absolutely, although you should always clear it with your obstetrician first. The American Dental Association (ADA) has found that “periodontal treatment and essential dental treatment” including our Brentwood periodontal scaling and root planing treatments are not associated with any adverse outcomes. In fact, one study has found that pregnant women with gum disease who underwent scaling and root planing significantly reduced their rate of preterm birth than women who received only a standard professional cleaning.

Q: What Causes Pregnancy Gingivitis and Gum Disease?

A: Pregnant women are more prone to gingivitis than the general population for the same reason they’re more likely to experience more well-known pregnancy symptoms such as nausea: hormonal changes. Your pregnant body is much more sensitive to the bacteria in plaque than it was pre-pregnancy.

Schedule a Gum Disease Consultation in Brentwood Today!

If you’re pregnant and worry that you may be suffering from gum disease, don’t hesitate to contact the CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy to schedule a consultation with periodontal specialists Dr. Aalam and Dr. Krivitsky! Call the gum disease experts in Brentwood today at 310-826-8242!

Always check with your obstetrician before scheduling a dentist or periodontist appointment, and always tell your dentist or periodontist that you are pregnant when you visit them. Certain treatments, medicines, and the use of X-Rays are not recommended during pregnancy.

You May Also Like...