Pregnancy and Oral Health

Due to changes in hormones, pregnant women might be more susceptible to oral health conditions, like gingivitis, tooth decay, and pregnancy tumors.

Pregnancy gingivitis affects nearly 40% of pregnant women and looks like:

  • Red and swollen gums
  • Sensitivity of gums and teeth
  • Bleeding after brushing or flossing

Gingivitis is early-stage gum disease, and without proper care, it can lead to more serious conditions like periodontitis. Periodontitis is a bacterial infection that attacks the tissue and bones supporting the teeth and, though the connection is unclear, is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes like low birth weight and preterm births. With a little extra care in your oral health routine, you can keep pregnancy gingivitis at bay. Recommendations include:

  • Spending more time brushing, focusing on the gum line
  • Using an antimicrobial mouthwash after brushing

Pregnant women might also be more susceptible to tooth decay, especially if they suffer from nausea or morning sickness. The acidity of vomit can weaken tooth enamel, so it’s important to rinse your mouth before brushing to make sure the acid is gone. It’s best to wait 30 minutes after rinsing before brushing your teeth, so that acid isn’t pushed further into the teeth and gums.

Another effect of pregnancy hormones on oral health is pregnancy tumors. They affect about five percent of pregnant women and are completely benign, but can cause discomfort. Symptoms include:

  • Small, berry-colored lumps at the gum line or between teeth, between .5 and 2.5 centimeters in size
  • Sometimes painful

Though these tumors go away on their own, and are not cancerous or harmful, they might be painful and can be removed, typically with a laser or cryosurgery.

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Testimonials

  • "I firmly BELIEVE in painless dentistry, and I am happy to say, that the wonderful folks at Pinon Hills Dental also believe in it! I cannot say enough good things about my care there! Dr. Vanden Broeck and her assistant were genuinely concerned about my comfort. I will need more care ahead, and this is my absolute, go to, dental office!"
    Prairie Dog Google Nov2023
  • "Travis Watson was truly the most kind, compassionate, honest, and detail-oriented dentist that I have ever been to. I have had work done by at least a half dozen or more dentists over the years, and Dr. Watson was BY FAR the most compassionate, kind, and caring when it came to my procedure and dental work needs. I couldn't possibly recommend. Dr. Watson and Pinon Hills Dental any higher. Five stars isn't enough. Dr. Watson should get 10 stars. If there was a Nobel Prize for dentistry, Dr. Watson should win it--and many times over. If you're considering a dentist in the Farmington area--or beyond (I came from Durango)--Dr. Watson should be your choice. Beyond belief, you'll actually look forward going to the dentist. I'm forever grateful for Dr. Watson's skill, compassion, and kindness--and you will be too."
    Peter Barr- Google Dec 2020
  • "If you want a dentist who truly cares about his patients, you must see Dr. Watson. He Has the latest technology in-house and it's amazing. For my last crown, Dr. Watson scanned my tooth with a laser and then a machine in the office milled my crown from porcelain to the scan. It was a perfect fit and that tooth hasn't felt so good in years. He was always asking if I needed a break, if I felt any discomfort to let him know immediately and so on. Can't say enough good things about him. Our entire family trusts Pinon Hills Dental with their dental Care!"
    George Joy Google Aug2023
  • "The staff here are very friendly and accommodating. I was in a decent amount of pain so they moved my appointment up and kept me from hurting for an extra 5 days. Dr. Watson personally called me to check on me and make sure things we're ok. It means a lot that he didn't have an assistant or secretary make that call."
    Kev Sharp-GoogleNov2020
  • "Dr. Watson is absolutely incredible in every way! We have always been treated with the utmost respect, compassion and expertise. He has gone out of his way to treat our family in emergency situations. In each instant, he provided amazing and excellent care when other dentists could not. He is always positive and reassuring in all situations! His office staff, dental assistants and hygienists are incredible in every way! The atmosphere in the office is peaceful, positive and upbeat! We highly recommend Pinon Hills!!!"
    Angela McDaniels- GoogleDec2020
  • "The politeness and care of the dentist, dental hygienist and the staff wowed me today. Dr. Watson and Dr. Weber really have a vested interest in your teeth. They are very concerned to the point that I brush and floss so I won't let them down.
    You never feel belittled by anyone in the office and they only encourage you when you need to do a little better. I used to worry about going to the dentist but now I know I have people who want the best for me in the doctors office."
    Kevin Jaramillo