Moms-To-Be: Gestational Gingivitis May be a Problem for You

Revised July 2021


Do you have a baby on the way? Congratulations. You already know about taking good care of your body, but did you know that your mouth also needs some special TLC during this time?

Here’s why:

1. Your teeth and gums are more susceptible to decay and disease.

• Hormones are partially to blame. Because of increased progesterone levels, you may experience a phenomenon called gestational gingivitis (aka pregnancy gums). This condition results in swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness in the gum tissue.
• Cravings for sugary and starchy snacks lead to increased plaque build-up, which raises your risk of tooth decay.
• Frequent vomiting due to early morning sickness bathes your teeth in cavity-causing acids.

2. Advanced gum disease, called periodontal disease, may affect the health of your unborn child. While initial findings still need to be confirmed, some research has shown a link between periodontal disease and pre-term, low-weight birth babies.

The likely culprit is a labor-inducing chemical found in oral bacteria called prostaglandin. Very high levels of prostaglandin are found in women with severe cases of periodontal disease. Without proper care, pregnancy gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease.

How to minimize pregnancy gingivitis and avoid periodontal disease

Good oral hygiene will help you keep a healthy smile throughout your pregnancy.

1. Take meticulous care and time with good brushing and flossing techniques to remove plaque.
2. Schedule a dental check-up and cleaning within the first or second trimester of your pregnancy.
3. Eat a well-balanced diet and get plenty of vitamins C and B12.
4. Refrain from using tobacco products during your entire pregnancy, and preferably, beyond.

Need more advice about your oral health during and after pregnancy?

Don’t hesitate to contact your dentist with your questions. If you currently don’t have one, use this handy tool to find one in your area. Delta Dental of Arkansas has one of the state’s largest networks of dentists.

If you are currently enrolled in one of our individual, family or group plans, remember to add your newborn to your insurance coverage within 30 days after birth.