During pregnancy, changes in hormones cause 65- 70% of pregnant mothers to experience oral problems.
This phenomenon, known as ‘Pregnancy Gingivitis’ – an infection of the gum tissues - occurs in the second trimester and, if you are already suffering with gingivitis it is most likely the condition will worsen during pregnancy.

More than 70% of bacteria present in the mouth are due to biofilms

Because of its moist, warm conditions, your mouth is a paradise for bacteria, which can accumulate on gums and
teeth and cause the build-up of bacteria resulting in plaque. These bacterial plaque colonies are known as biofilms.

Under normal conditions, the continuous protective systems in your saliva maintain a healthy balance in your mouth helping avoid the formation of biofilm.

However, during pregnancy, changes in your hormone levels and in your immune system can lead to the presence of
excessive plaque bacteria. These bacteria, which cause pregnancy gingivitis, can enter your bloodstream where they
may affect the development of your unborn baby.

Research shows that mothers with pregnancy gingivitis are 6 times more likely to deliver a pre-term
or low birth weight baby.

Furthermore, if left untreated, a mother can also pass her own oral bacteria directly to her newborn baby’s mouth
leading to a 4-fold increase in her child’s prevalence to tooth decay.

Despite this, during the first and third trimester of pregnancy dentists do not recommend undergoing any major dental
treatments. Similarly, any medicated products or antibiotics must also be strictly controlled at this time.

It is vital, therefore, to be extra vigilant in your oral hygiene regimes during and following pregnancy to avoid a build-up of bacteria that could have severe consequences on your own oral health and on the outcome of your pregnancy.