A pregnant woman holding her belly

Pregnancy and
oral health

Hormones and their effects on the mouth and gums1

Hormones influence the blood flow to the gum tissue as well as the body’s inflammatory reaction. As a result of these changes, women are more likely to acquire periodontal disease and other oral health concerns at different phases of their life.

Hormonal changes, particularly an increase in progesterone peaks a few days before the menstrual cycle, can cause

  • Swollen gums
  • Enlarged salivary glands
  • Canker sores
  • Bleeding gums

Pregnancy2

The surge in pregnancy hormones, particularly severe in the second trimester and making gums more susceptible to gingivitis. Pregnancy gingivitis is a condition that affects up to 60%-75% of women at some point throughout their pregnancy. In the vast majority of cases, these symptoms subside shortly after birth.

A smiling pregnant woman sitting on a bed with her hands on her belly

Menopause1

Oral changes and symptoms can occur as a result of hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause, including altered taste, a burning feeling in the mouth, increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks, and decreased saliva flow, which can result in dry mouth.

Saliva is our body’s natural cleansing agent; it moisturises the mouth and neutralises acid; nevertheless, inadequate quantities of saliva can allow bacteria to proliferate, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.

Because saliva is not available to moisten and wash the mouth by neutralising acids created by plaque, dry mouth can lead to the development of periodontal disease.

An older woman looking thoughtfully out of a window

To manage and relieve symptoms

Use GENGIGEL® Mouthrinse twice a day at a separate time than brushing for gum symptoms such bleeding gums, irritation, burning, sensitivity, and dry mouth. This will coat your mouth and help to relieve inflammation, sensitivity, and pain. GENGIGEL® Gel can help with specific areas of sensitivity or clusters of mouth ulcers.

Reference 1. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/hormones-and-oral-health 2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22484-pregnancy-gingivitis.