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What is pregnancy gingivitis? How can it be prevented or controlled?

Pregnancy gingivitis is an inflammation of the gum tissue that is characterized by red, puffy, or tender gums that tend to bleed when pressure is applied, especially during toothbrushing. The hormonal changes (increases in estrogen and progesterone) that occur during pregnancy make the gums more sensitive to accumulated plaque, sometimes resulting in gingivitis.

Pregnancy gingivitis can be prevented or controlled by

• Cleaning the mouth daily or periodically with a warm saltwater rinse (1 teaspoon salt to 1 cup water).

• Brushing with fluoridated toothpaste at least twice per day and flossing once per day.

• Eating healthy foods such as fruit, vegetables, grain products (especially whole grain), and dairy products.

• Drinking water throughout the day, especially between meals and snacks.

• Quitting smoking (for those who smoke cigarettes).

• Having at least one dental visit during pregnancy, during which the teeth are cleaned.

• Attending dental visits according to a schedule recommended by the dentist, based on needs or susceptibility to disease.

Performance Standards

1304.40(c)(1)(ii)

1304.41(a)(2)(i)

References

Academy of General Dentistry. 2009. Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy. Chicago, IL: Academy of General Dentistry.

American Pregnancy Association. Pregnancy and Swollen Gums (Also Known as Pregnancy Gingivitis). Irving, TX: American Pregnancy Association.

Casamassimo P, Holt K, eds. 2004. Bright Futures in Practice: Oral Health—Pocket Guide. Washington, DC: National Maternal and Child Health Oral Health Resource Center.

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	Library Publications MCHB-Funded Projects Grants Administration TOHSS Head Start Alert Newsletter FAQs Links Bright Futures Toolbox Electronic Lists & Newsletters Links About Us FAQs Contact	A⁺ a^- Head Start What is pregnancy gingivitis? How can it be prevented or controlled? Pregnancy gingivitis is an inflammation of the gum tissue that is characterized by red, puffy, or tender gums that tend to bleed when pressure is applied, especially during toothbrushing. The hormonal changes (increases in estrogen and progesterone) that occur during pregnancy make the gums more sensitive to accumulated plaque, sometimes resulting in gingivitis. Pregnancy gingivitis can be prevented or controlled by • Cleaning the mouth daily or periodically with a warm saltwater rinse (1 teaspoon salt to 1 cup water). • Brushing with fluoridated toothpaste at least twice per day and flossing once per day. • Eating healthy foods such as fruit, vegetables, grain products (especially whole grain), and dairy products. • Drinking water throughout the day, especially between meals and snacks. • Quitting smoking (for those who smoke cigarettes). • Having at least one dental visit during pregnancy, during which the teeth are cleaned. • Attending dental visits according to a schedule recommended by the dentist, based on needs or susceptibility to disease. Performance Standards 1304.40(c)(1)(ii) 1304.41(a)(2)(i) References Academy of General Dentistry. 2009. Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy. Chicago, IL: Academy of General Dentistry. American Pregnancy Association. Pregnancy and Swollen Gums (Also Known as Pregnancy Gingivitis). Irving, TX: American Pregnancy Association. Casamassimo P, Holt K, eds. 2004. Bright Futures in Practice: Oral Health—Pocket Guide. Washington, DC: National Maternal and Child Health Oral Health Resource Center. Share \|
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