Causes
Both the hormone balance and the mother’s immune system change during pregnancy. These changes favour the development of any kind of inflammation. The increased estrogen and progesterone levels caused by pregnancy dilate the blood vessels.
This makes it easier for the gums to bleed, since the gums have receptors for hormones that increase the permeability of the blood vessels. In addition, the B and T defence cells and scavenger cells, i.e. the cells responsible for the immune response, are present in the blood in reduced numbers. This means that the bacteria in the oral cavity are not sufficiently combated.
Particularly many bacteria are in the mouth area during pregnancy, since plaque, i.e. the dental plaque, attaches itself particularly much, because the surface of the mouth mucous membrane changes. In addition, there is often increased fluid retention in the cells, causing the mouth mucosa to swell. This makes it more difficult to clean and also favors the settlement of bacteria. Which you should also read:
- Skin rash during pregnancy
- Pregnancy complications
- Edema during pregnancy
- Causes of gum inflammation
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is relatively easy to make. If the gums change and the typical symptoms of gingivitis appear, everything points to this diagnosis. Among other things, the gums swell up and turn red instead of pink.
However, there may be differences in the type and severity of the inflammation. Every small injury to the gums leads to inflammation. Whether it is gingivitis, which is caused by bacteria, among other things, must be ascertained by the dentist. The dentist can determine whether and how the inflammation needs further treatment by means of certain measurements.
What helps?
In order to minimize the risk of gum inflammation, or to relieve the inflammation, you should switch to a soft toothbrush. In addition, oral hygiene should be improved. Dental floss and a light mouth rinse should be used for daily care.
The gums are especially cared for with Meridol toothpaste. In serious cases, professional tooth cleaning should be carried out several times. It is also helpful to pay attention to your diet.
Foods that contain sugar and carbohydrates are particularly beneficial for gum inflammation. Cooling helps against the acute swelling. The oral mucosa should not be cooled directly, as the cold could damage the tooth.
It must be cooled from the outside. Many pregnant women swear by Weleda Aufbaukalk. Take a knife point of it in the morning and in the evening.
It supports the absorption of substances from food into the organism. It strengthens the tooth surface and reinforces the cohesion between root and fibers. In order not to strengthen the inflammation, rest should be avoided.
Sport would lead to higher blood pressure. Therefore, one should also sleep in a half-sitting position so that excess fluid can drain away. The following articles may also be of interest to you: Professional tooth cleaning – how often is it necessary? and the procedure of professional tooth cleaning and medication in case of gingivitis
