Dr. Martin Urban is specially trained to treat patients suffering from gum disease. While it is important for everybody to maintain their oral hygiene, one group suffers from particularly high rates of gum inflammation: pregnant women. Since this population is especially vulnerable, we want them to understand what they should expect and how we are able to help.
Inflammation is how the body reacts to the threat of disease. When bacteria in the gum pockets secrete acid, the gums become inflamed, making cell membranes more permeable to antibodies and preventing the toxins from spreading. But inflammation also makes gums sore, discolored, and easily bruised, resulting in bleeding. When a woman is pregnant (or going through menopause), her body produces large amounts of a hormone called progesterone. This hormone triggers new blood vessel growth and increases blood flow to the gums. As a result, they are much more sensitive to oral bacteria and become inflamed more easily.
There is always a possibility that gingivitis will progress into periodontitis and threaten the integrity of gum tissue. However, this can usually be avoided through regular brushing and flossing. Pregnant women may want to stick to toothpaste for sensitive teeth, but they should be vigilant about removing food debris and acid. We can help them by providing deep cleanings to the gum pockets and using localized anti-bacterial medicines. We can also show them proper brushing and flossing techniques and examine bumps that sometimes develop in gum tissue during pregnancy
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.
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