If you are pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant, there are a host of health issues that you must contend with. Along with maintaining good physical health to ensure proper development of the fetus, your oral health needs extra-special attention. The hormonal changes during pregnancy have a direct effect on your body’s reaction to the presence of dental plaque in your mouth. Estrogen and progesterone have been found to cause an increased level of bleeding of the gums during pregnancy and breast feeding, if gingivitis is present. Numerous research studies have positively linked the inflammatory effects of gingivitis to low birth-weight babies and to pre-term deliveries. It is thought that the oral bacteria that enter the blood circulation increase the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like chemicals suspected of inducing premature labor during a pregnancy. 

To prevent gingivitis, it is essential to adhere to meticulous daily oral hygiene care, such as thorough brushing and daily flossing, even if you observe slightly more bleeding than usual. It is important to remember that the bleeding will diminish as the gum tissues regain a healthy environment, where the inflammatory processes are diminished, or eliminated. A healthy diet also helps keep the oral cavity in good health balance, especially if it is rich in vitamin C and B-12 containing foods.

Plan to visit your dentist early on during your pregnancy, and a second time before the 9^th month if possible. During your pregnancy, routine, non-emergency dental procedures should be postponed. However, dental emergencies should be taken care of as soon as possible, since the presence of infection in your body may have adverse effects on the developing fetus. X-rays should only be taken for an emergency situation if it is deemed necessary for proper diagnosis, but should be kept to an absolute minimum. It is always helpful to consult with your OB-GYN regarding the safety of taking oral antibiotics, if necessary, or the advisability of local anesthetics, especially if the pregnancy is considered high risk. Discuss with your dentist any concerns or special conditions that may affect the course of the emergency treatment.