How Hormones Affect Gum Health During Pregnancy

When a woman is pregnant, her body goes through many changes, and some of those changes affect her gums and oral health more than she might expect. The rise in hormones like estrogen and progesterone can make the gums more sensitive, more prone to swelling, and more likely to bleed. At the same time, immune system changes and increased blood flow also play a role. Keeping up good dental habits during pregnancy is not just about teeth; it’s about caring for the gums, too.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, “During pregnancy, the surge of hormones in your body makes you more susceptible to gingivitis”. The article notes that between “60% and 75% of pregnant women develop gum inflammation” because of hormonal shifts (Cleveland Clinic). These changes mean that what might have been a mild case of gum sensitivity before pregnancy can become a more serious issue as hormone levels rise.

When gums are inflamed, they can become red, swollen, tender, and bleed easily while brushing or flossing. Sometimes new gum growths called “pregnancy tumours” appear; these are usually benign but still need attention. If gum inflammation is ignored, it can progress toward more serious periodontal disease, which has been linked in some studies to pregnancy complications like early delivery or low birth weight.

So what can expectant mothers do? First, maintain excellent dental hygiene: brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush, floss daily, and visit the dentist regularly for cleanings. Avoid letting morning sickness or fatigue lead to skipped dental care. Make sure the dentist knows you are pregnant so they tailor treatment accordingly. Also, managing diet, limiting sugary snacks, and rinsing after vomiting can help reduce the risk to gums and enamel.

Good gum health matters not just for the mother but also for the baby. A healthy mouth supports overall wellness during pregnancy, and a proactive approach can help prevent more serious issues down the road. At Rabalais Dental Centre, we understand these special considerations and are here to support your oral health journey throughout pregnancy and beyond.

Sources
Cleveland Clinic, Pregnancy Gingivitis: Causes, Treatment & Prevention
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22484-pregnancy-gingivitis

MouthHealthy (American Dental Association), Women’s Hormones and Dental Health
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/womens-hormones-and-dental-health

March of Dimes, Dental health during pregnancy
https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/dental-health-during-pregnancy