Periodontal disease is the clinical name for gum disease, a common oral health condition caused by the growth of bacteria underneath the gum line. These bacteria can cause infection. Many people think that sore gums or bleeding when they brush is common and not a big deal; however, these are often indications of the early stages of gum diseases and should be taken seriously.
While anyone can be susceptible to gum disease, there are certain conditions that increase a person’s chance of having it. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable due to hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy. It’s important for expectant mothers to be aware of gum disease and their oral health because research has shown that women with periodontal disease could be at risk for early labor and delivering infants with low birth weights.
If you are pregnant, be sure to alert your dentist at your next appointment. Dr. Terry Vines of Pure Gold Professionals in Dentistry has been helping women ensure that their mouths remain healthy during pregnancy for many years. He works with all patients to prevent gum disease before it starts or keep it from getting worse if it is detected.
Common symptoms of gum disease include bleeding gums, swollen or red gums, teeth that feel loose, or a gum line that seems to be receding. If you notice any of these symptoms and are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, call your dentist. If gum disease is caught quickly it can typically be reversed quickly. Depending on how advanced the gum disease is when it is detected, treatment ranges from simply improving your oral hygiene habits or using prescription mouth rinse to gum surgery that includes lifting away the gums and cleaning out the infection.
If it goes untreated, however, it can progress and spread, destroying bone and tissue in the mouth and risking that the infection could enter your bloodstream or other areas of your body. For more information about gum disease or other dental concerns during pregnancy, call Dr. Terry Vines at Pure Gold Professionals in Dentistry today.