What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a common gum illness that can cause a lot of trouble, but it can be prevented. The long answer is that your body’s cells have a way of protecting themselves called “inflammation.” When you have a lot of bacteria in your mouth, your gums will get red and swollen to try to kill the bacteria. Gingivitis is the name for gum disease, which makes the gums look red, soft, and sore.
Over time, gingivitis can lead to a more serious gum disease called periodontitis, which can get worse and start to hurt your teeth and jaw bones. When you have bad gum disease, it can wreck your mouth. Gum disease is linked to babies being born early and with low birth weight, so pregnant women need to be extra careful.
On their way to becoming parents, all moms and moms-to-be want the best start for their babies. Read on to find out more about gum disease and pregnancy from your dentist.
Gum Disease, Pregnancy, and Birth Defects
Here’s what happened:
- Up to 75% of women who are pregnant get gum disease. About half of them will have it get worse while they are pregnant.
- Changes in hormones and diabetes, both of which are common during pregnancy, can make gum disease more likely.
- Studies show that gum disease is more likely to happen during pregnancy if the mother is older and has less money.
- Gum disease makes you more likely to give birth early or have a baby with a low birth weight. We don’t fully understand why, but it’s a fact.
Why Does This Matter?
When a baby is born weighing less than 5.5 pounds, it is more likely that their physical, social, and mental growth will be slower for the rest of their lives. Babies who are born too early can also have problems with their eyes, hearing, digestion, and breathing. Talk to your doctor to find out more about low birth weight and being born early.
How You Can Prevent Gum Disease
You don’t get a free pass to brush your teeth while you’re pregnant. Oral hygiene like brushing, flossing, and getting your teeth cleaned by an expert is safe and important, especially for pregnant women. Not to mention that you may be wanting sweets more these days because you are pregnant. Ice cream for breakfast, anyone?
Eat things that are good for your teeth and gums and keep your mouth clean to stay ahead of gum disease. If you get gingivitis, don’t be afraid to go to the doctor for a cleaning. If you need more help, you can also ask your doctor for medicinal mouthwash.
Talk to both your primary care doctor and your dentist about your gums and your general health. If you’re looking for a dentist, we’d be happy to take care of you during this important time. Contact us right away to set up a meeting!
Dr. Motiwala in International Press
Please click on the NEWS site’s logo below to visit the article.
 |
 |
 |
Huge Savings on Dental Implants at Dr. Motiwala’s Clinic
Get in Touch with Us Now!
For more details about dental implant prices and your available treatment options, contact Dr. Motiwala’s Dental Clinic & Implant Center at +91 99596 14584. The form on our website’s CONTACT US page also allows you to send us an email. We would be happy to assist you if there is any way we can.