Recent research has looked at the connection between oral health and longevity, including how tooth loss, gum disease, untreated dental problems, and oral frailty may be connected to broader health risks. One study published in BMC Oral Health found that the number of teeth a person has is associated with all-cause and disease-specific mortality. That does not mean dental care is a magic formula for living longer, but it does show that your mouth can be an important part of the bigger health picture.

Why Oral Health Matters for Long-Term Wellness

Healthy teeth and gums help you chew comfortably, maintain good nutrition, speak clearly, and avoid pain or infection. When gum disease, decay, missing teeth, or loose teeth are left untreated, they can affect everyday life in ways people may not notice right away.

Tooth loss can change what you eat. Gum disease can affect the tissue and bone that support your teeth. Persistent bad breath, bleeding gums, gum recession, or teeth that feel loose can all be signs that your gums need attention.

That is why oral health and overall health should not be treated as separate. Your mouth is part of your body, and protecting your teeth and gums is part of protecting your long-term wellness.

The Connection Between Gum Disease and Whole-Body Health

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects the gums and supporting structures around the teeth. In its early stages, it may not be painful, which is why many people do not realize there is a problem until symptoms become harder to ignore.

Common signs of gum disease can include:

Bleeding gums
Puffy or tender gums
Gum recession
Persistent bad breath
Loose teeth
Changes in how your teeth fit together
Discomfort while chewing

For patients looking for periodontal care in Broomall, identifying these issues early can make a meaningful difference. Early treatment may help protect your gums, preserve your teeth, and support a healthier smile over time.

What Tooth Loss May Say About Overall Health

Tooth loss is not just a cosmetic concern. Missing teeth can affect chewing, nutrition, confidence, speech, and quality of life. Research on oral frailty has also looked at issues such as fewer remaining teeth, difficulty chewing or swallowing, dry mouth, and speaking difficulty in older adults. A 2026 review in BMC Oral Health found that having fewer than 20 remaining teeth was associated with increased risk of oral frailty.

At Havrilla Center, we help patients protect their natural teeth whenever possible. When teeth cannot be saved, dental implants may be an option to restore function, comfort, and confidence. Dental implants in Broomall can help patients replace missing teeth and support a healthier, more stable smile.

Warning Signs Your Gums Need Attention

Because gum disease does not always cause pain right away, it is important to pay attention to changes in your mouth. Bleeding when brushing or flossing is not something to ignore. Bad breath that keeps coming back can also be a sign that something deeper is going on.

You should talk to a dental professional if you notice:

Gums that bleed easily
Gums that look swollen or red
Teeth that feel loose
Gums pulling away from the teeth
Pain or discomfort while chewing
Ongoing bad breath
A change in your bite
Missing teeth or shifting teeth

These symptoms do not always mean you have advanced periodontal disease, but they are worth checking. Treating problems early is one of the best ways to protect your teeth and gums.

How Havrilla Center Helps Protect Your Teeth and Gums

Havrilla Center provides periodontal care in Broomall, PA, with a focus on gum health, dental implants, and long-term oral health. As a Broomall dental specialist, our goal is to help patients understand what is happening in their mouths and what can be done to protect their smile.

Whether you are concerned about bleeding gums, gum recession, missing teeth, tooth loss, or dental implants, periodontal care can help address problems that affect both your smile and your quality of life.

Your teeth may reveal more about your long-term health than you realize. Taking care of them is not just about having a nice smile. It is about chewing comfortably, speaking clearly, preventing problems from getting worse, and protecting the healthy teeth and gums you want to keep for years to come.

If you have concerns about gum disease, tooth loss, or your overall oral health, Havrilla Center in Broomall, PA can help you take the next step.

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April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about a serious condition that is often caught too late. Oral cancer can affect the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat, and while it is highly treatable when detected early, many cases are diagnosed in later stages.

Each year, nearly 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer. The key to improving outcomes is early detection, which is why regular dental visits and oral cancer screenings are so important, especially for patients in Broomall and the surrounding communities.

Common Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer symptoms can be easy to overlook, especially in the early stages. Paying attention to changes in your mouth and overall health can help catch issues sooner.

Signs and symptoms of oral cancer include:
• Mouth pain that does not go away
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Persistent bad breath
• Unexplained weight loss
• Changes in your voice
• Sores, lumps, or patches in the mouth that do not heal

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule a dental exam. These signs do not always mean cancer, but they should always be evaluated.

Oral Cancer Risk Factors

Understanding oral cancer risk factors can help you take steps to reduce your chances of developing the disease.Common risk factors include:
• Tobacco use, including cigarettes and smokeless tobacco

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Oral health is much more than just having a dazzling smile; it’s essential for our overall well-being. Keeping up with good oral hygiene helps prevent dental issues and lowers the risk of various health problems. Studies have established links between poor oral health and conditions like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, and negative pregnancy outcomes. By caring for our teeth and gums, we’re also protecting our general health.

Key Tips for Excellent Oral Hygiene:

1. Brushing: Good oral hygiene begins with effective brushing. Try to brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush for two minutes, ensuring you cover all tooth surfaces and the gum line. Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles start to wear out.
2. Flossing: Daily flossing is a vital step that often gets overlooked. It helps remove plaque and food particles between the teeth and the gum line. Incorporate flossing into your routine to maintain a healthy mouth. Consider alternatives like floss picks or water flossers if you find traditional floss challenging.
3. Healthy Eating Habits: What we consume greatly affects our oral health. Limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as they can erode tooth enamel and contribute to cavities. Instead, choose a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products. These provide essential nutrients for strong teeth and gums.
4. Regular Dental Check-ups: Don’t underestimate the importance of regular dental check-ups. Schedule visits with your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and comprehensive examinations. These visits allow for the early detection of any dental issues and professional guidance on maintaining optimal oral health.
5. Additional Measures: Consider incorporating mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine. It can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Additionally, if you participate in sports or activities that pose a risk of dental injuries, wear protective mouthguards to prevent trauma to your teeth and jaw.

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What Is Gum Recession?

Gum recession is a periodontal condition in which the gum tissue surrounding your teeth begins to pull back, exposing more of the tooth’s root. This can create gaps or pockets between the teeth and gums, making it easier for bacteria to build up and cause tooth decay or risk of gum disease. Gum recession can also make your teeth look longer than normal and create sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.

Gum Recession Causes

Keeping your hygiene can be frustrating if you have gum damage. It is painful and discomforting, and you can’t show a straighter smile. There are plenty of factors that you may not know why you’re experiencing gum recession.

Aggressive Brushing

Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or aggressively brushing your teeth can cause gum tissue movement resulting in mild gum bleeding.

Gum Disease

Some symptoms of gum disease are caused by a bacterial infection that can damage the gum tissue and cause it to recede. Poor oral hygiene can cause bacteria to build up in the mouth.

Aging

As we age, our gums naturally recede, making us more exposed to gum disease.

Hormonal Changes

Changes in hormones during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can result in more sensitive gum and susceptibility to recession.

Orthodontic Treatment

Some patients experience gum recession with braces. Aligner treatments or traditional braces can sometimes contribute to gum recession. In some cases, the movement of teeth during orthodontic treatment can cause the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth.

Genetics

Some patients may be more exposed to gum recession due to their genetic makeup.

Tobacco Use

Chemicals from using tobacco products can increase the risk of gum disease, leading to gum recession.

Bruxism

Grinding or clenching your teeth can pressure the gums and cause them to recede over time.

Misaligned Teeth

Teeth that are misaligned or crowded can put pressure on the gums, leading to recession.

Can Receding Gums Grow Back?

Unfortunately, once gums have receded, they do not grow back on their own. The gum tissue does not have the same regenerative capacity as other tissues in the body. That’s why preventing further gum recession is essential. Good oral hygiene practices like flossing and brushing regularly can help prevent the development of periodontal disease and further gum recession. Avoiding tobacco use and maintaining a healthy diet can also help to promote healthy gums.

Can Invisalign Worsen Gum Recession?

Invisalign uses clear aligner trays instead of traditional metal braces to slowly shift teeth into their desired position. While Invisalign can help to improve the appearance and function of your teeth, it can worsen gum recession if not correctly managed.

One way that Invisalign can lead to gum recession is if the aligners are not properly fitted. The aligners can cause the gums to recede if they are too tight or apply too much pressure to the teeth and gums. Additionally, if the aligners are not correctly cleaned and maintained, this can lead to bacterial buildup, bad breath, and gum disease, contributing to dental issues.

However, when Invisalign treatment is appropriately managed and monitored by a qualified orthodontist, it is unlikely to worsen gum recession. Invisalign can also help to improve gum health by properly aligning and fixing crowded teeth.

Can Invisalign Make Your Gums Bleed?

Invisalign can cause gum bleeding, which is generally not a common side effect. If the aligners are not properly fitted, they can put pressure on the gums and cause irritation or inflammation, leading to bleeding. Additionally, having pre-existing gum disease or poor dental hygiene can increase the risk of bleeding.

Treatment for Gum Recession

Gum recession is the retraction of gum tissue surrounding and supporting your teeth, exposing the tooth’s root. This can lead to tooth sensitivity, decay, and, eventually, tooth loss.

Below are several treatments for gum disease.

Soft-Tissue Graft

Soft tissue graft or gum grafting is a surgical procedure in which tissue is taken from your gum or another mouth surface and placed over the affected area. This can help cover your teeth’ exposed roots and protect them from decay.

Scaling and Root Planing

This non-surgical procedure involves removing tartar and plaque from the teeth and root surfaces. This can help remove bacteria that contribute to gum disease and promote gum tissue healing.

Laser Therapy

This newer treatment option uses a laser to remove bacteria and stimulate the growth of new gum tissue.

Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene routines, such as brushing at least twice a day, can help to prevent gum disease and makes the mouth healthy.

Quitting Smoking

Smoking can contribute to gum disease and worsen gum recession, so quitting smoking can help to improve gum health.

FAQs

Can wearing Invisalign cause gum recession?

When you wear Invisalign, your teeth are moved by the aligners. This means that the soft tissue of your mouth (gums) is pulled and stretched to accomplish this movement. Over time, this can cause gum recession, when the gums recede from your teeth.

Can wearing retainers cause gum recession?

Wearing retainers is not likely to cause gum recession directly. However, if retainers are not correctly fitted or maintained, they can contribute to gum recession indirectly.

For example, if a retainer is too tight or applies too much pressure to the teeth and gums, this can cause irritation and inflammation. Also, if a retainer is not properly cleaned and maintained, it can harbor bacteria and other harmful substances that can contribute to gum disease and recession.

How do I keep my gums healthy with Invisalign?

Keeping your gums healthy while wearing Invisalign is easy. Avoid using a toothbrush with large and hard bristles. Instead, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth. You should also avoid over-brushing your Invisalign trays and brackets, which can cause irritation.

Does Invisalign cause root damage?

The risk of root damage during Invisalign treatment is generally low, but it can occur if the aligners are not properly fitted or if too much pressure is applied to the teeth and roots. This can cause the roots to become compressed or distorted, leading to root resorption or other damage.

What are the disadvantages of Invisalign?

Below are potential disadvantages of using Invisalign

• Invisalign treatment can be more expensive than traditional braces.
• Requires self-discipline to wear them consistently for the recommended time each day.
• It may cause discomfort or soreness, particularly during the first few days of wearing them.
• It may not be suitable for all cases involving severe bite issues or tooth rotation.
• It requires good oral hygiene as it must be removed and cleaned regularly to prevent bacterial buildup.
• It may require attachments, which are small tooth-colored bumps bonded to the teeth to help the aligners grip the teeth more effectively.

Can Invisalign cause teeth to fall out?

No, Invisalign treatment does not cause teeth to fall out. Invisalign aligners are designed to gradually and safely shift teeth into their desired position without compromising the health or stability of the teeth.

What type of teeth can Invisalign not fix?

While Invisalign is a versatile orthodontic treatment, some types of teeth and bite issues may not be able to be corrected with Invisalign. These include:

• Severe bite issues
• Loose tooth for extractions
• Teeth that require significant rotation
• Large gaps between teeth

Treat Your Receding Gums With Smile Fort Wayne

Are you experiencing receding gums and looking for an effective treatment? Look no further than Havrilla Center for Periodontic & Dental Implants! Our experienced team in Broomall, PA, can help you restore your gum health and prevent further damage.

With our advanced techniques and personalized approach, we can create a personalized treatment plan for your specific needs and goals. We offer a range of treatments for gum recession, including gum grafting, scaling and root planing, and laser therapy.

Don’t let receding gums compromise your oral health and smile. Contact the Havrilla Center today to schedule a consultation toward restoring your gum health.

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Since oral health is closely linked to overall wellness, it’s essential to address and prevent dental problems to support a vibrant life. Here are some easy tips to boost and sustain your oral health so you can show off that winning smile:

1. Brush Your Teeth – Brushing your teeth twice daily is essential for removing plaque and bacteria that lead to gum disease and cavities. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums, using gentle circular and back-and-forth motions to clean all areas of each tooth. Be cautious not to brush too hard, as it can damage your enamel and gums.

2. Floss Daily – Daily flossing is essential for complete oral hygiene, as it targets areas that brushing misses. It helps eliminate food particles and excess plaque, which is vital for your overall health.

3. Reduce Your Sugar Intake – Sugary, sticky, acidic, and starchy foods contribute to tooth decay by causing harmful substances to cling to teeth, creating buildup that can lead to cavities. This weakens the enamel and makes teeth more vulnerable. Taking steps to protect your teeth helps maintain good dental health.

4. Rinse with Mouthwash – Enhance your oral care routine with a fluoride-rich mouthwash, which helps strengthen tooth enamel and reduce harmful bacteria that cause decay.

5. Use Fluoride Toothpaste – Fluoride is great for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing decay. To get the best results, use fluoride toothpaste daily alongside regular dental visits for treatments.

6. Clean Your Tongue – Your tongue can harbor bacteria that affect your dental health. To combat this, regularly brushing your tongue or using a tongue scraper helps reduce harmful germs.

7. Examine Your Mouth, Teeth and Gums Regularly – No one knows your dental health better than you—regularly inspect the condition of your mouth, and pay attention to any unusual pain or discomfort that you may be having. Follow up with proactive visits to your dental professionals, and you’ll avoid costly dental emergencies that are financially and physically painful.

8. Take X-Rays Regularly – Regular x-rays are an important way to manage oral health effectively. Your dentist plays a key role, offering guidance on treatments and addressing concerns, especially for issues not visible to the naked eye. By getting routine x-rays, you can catch problems early and prevent larger complications down the line.

9. Be Proactive with Dental Visits – Regular visits to your dentist for cleaning, examinations, and preventative care are essential for maintaining excellent dental health. The Havrilla Center in Broomall provides comprehensive dental services, from maintenance to full arch rehabilitation, with a skilled team and advanced technology. If you haven’t prioritized your oral health lately, it’s a great time to schedule an appointment. Reach out to the Havrilla Center for Periodontics and Dental Implants in Broomall, PA, and take the first step towards better oral health!

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This year, Halloween might look a little different, but trick-or-treating is still a much-loved tradition. Dressing up and walking the neighborhood at night while neighbors toss candy into king-sized pillowcases is what makes Halloween night one of the most magical nights in a child’s life. But what if your child has an allergy to peanuts, gluten, artificial sweeteners, or any other allergens present in many of today’s treats? Fortunately, awareness surrounding allergies and the shift toward healthier eating shows more and more households are choosing to offer non-candy treats.

For small children, proper brushing and flossing are difficult, and some families may choose to do away with all the sweets rather than raise a child’s risk of tooth decay. If you’re considering switching to non-candy treats or want to offer an alternative so no one feels left out, here are some ideas to make your house a favorite in the neighborhood.

Mini Flashlights – Help kids light their way to a safe and fun Halloween! Some party supply stores have Halloween-themed flashlights for the little ones to enjoy long after that candy bar disappears.

Temporary Tattoos – Available in many different styles, temporary tattoos are a kid favorite!

Glow-in-the-Dark Balls or Glow Sticks – Anything that glows in the dark will keep neighborhood children entertained after a night of trick-or-treating. Bracelets, rings, and even glow-in-the-dark headbands can be a fun treat!

Rubber Stamps, Pens, Pencils, and Erasers – Eyeball-shaped erasers, stamps with pumpkins, and pencils decorated with witches and monsters make a fun addition to every pencil case. Even adults love these festive school supply treats!

Mini Fidget Spinners – Kids will be occupied with these long after that sugar rush wears off!

Bubbles – Halloween-themed bubbles come in a variety of fun tube colors decorated with vampires and witches.

Bottles of Water – Help kids stay hydrated while they walk the neighborhood! Some companies even sell Halloween-themed bottles!

Plastic Rings and Jewelry – Fun jewelry shaped liked spiders, bats, pumpkins make costumes even spookier!

Stickers – Kids love stickers! Offer a variety of sparkly, Halloween-themed, or scented stickers to make you a favorite on the block.

Vampire Teeth – Always a classic, vampire teeth are fun for children and adults! Some brands even glow-in-the-dark!

Choosing to give out non-candy treats on Halloween can help many children feel included in the fun who might otherwise feel self-conscious about an allergy they have no control over. If you do opt to give out toys instead of candy this Halloween, consider putting a teal pumpkin on your doorstep to show you have non-candy treats available. 

Started over 20 years ago by the Food Allergy Community of East Tennessee, the Teal Pumpkin Project has become a worldwide event, raising awareness about food-related medical conditions. Those who choose to take part put a teal-painted pumpkin outside their door and offer non-food treats to trick-or-treaters on Halloween. You can also find plastic teal pumpkins in many stores.

Offering non- candy and non-food items to trick-or-treaters not only helps all children feel included, but it helps keep their mouths healthy. Now that’s a treat in itself!

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1. Oral Irrigators – A study of these devices found they can reduce short term symptoms of the gum disease gingivitis.
2. Toothpicks – Wooden “cleaning sticks” are said to prevent gingivitis, while synthetic ones help remove plaque.
3. Interdental brushes – These little brushes can be easier to manipulate than floss.
4. Tape floss – While still technically flossing, tape floss can cause less discomfort than regular fiber-woven floss.
5. Floss picks – A study from 2007 found that these little tools can be “at least as good as” using regular dental floss.

1. Oral Irrigators – A study of these devices found they can reduce short term symptoms of the gum disease gingivitis.
2. Toothpicks – Wooden “cleaning sticks” are said to prevent gingivitis, while synthetic ones help remove plaque.
3. Interdental brushes – These little brushes can be easier to manipulate than floss.
4. Tape floss – While still technically flossing, tape floss can cause less discomfort than regular fiber-woven floss.
5. Floss picks – A study from 2007 found that these little tools can be “at least as good as” using regular dental floss.

The post Alternatives to Flossing appeared first on Havrilla Center for Periodontics & Dental Implants.

Healthy Drink Choices for the 4^th of July

Water – Water is the best choice for your Independence Day drink. Water from the tap in most locations also contains fluoride, which strengthens your tooth enamel.

If you plan to drink a sugary drink or any alcoholic beverages, simply alternate those drinks with a full glass of water. The water will wash away sugar and acid, which can lead to plaque buildup.

Tea – Unsweetened black or green tea are also refreshing choices. They contain natural compounds that fight bacteria growth in your mouth.

Great Food Choices for July 4^th

Many of the foods already offered on a barbecue spread are actually healthy… for your teeth. Here are the best choices:

Whole Wheat Buns and Protein – Use a whole wheat bun with your burger, brat, or hot dog, and save your teeth. Whole grains are better for you than breads and crackers made with white flour. They don’t stick to your gums and teeth like white-flour-based foods. When foods stick to your teeth, the bacteria in your mouth produces more acid, which can lead to tooth decay.

Additionally, meat contains phosphorus, which strengthens the minerals in your enamel. So, while there are definitely other health downsides to eating too much meat, your teeth won’t mind!

Cheese – When you eat cheese, your saliva production is stimulated, which aids in cleaning your teeth and promoting digestion.

Cheese is alkaline, which means it will neutralize any acidic foods you enjoy on the holiday. More than other dairy products, it helps keep your mouth’s pH level in balance. So, go ahead and put a slice on your burger, or eat some cubes from the cheese tray.

Yogurt – A patriotic yogurt parfait may be the best sweet food choice on Independence Day. The yogurt contains calcium to strengthen enamel and bones, including your jaw bone. It also has beneficial bacteria which promote oral health.

Berries – Berries contain antioxidants, which promote healthy gums and mouth tissues. They also have anthocyanins and polyphenols, powerful compounds that can prevent the growth of decay-causing bacteria. Eat them as a snack or add them to your yogurt parfait.

Raw veggies – Firm veggies like carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, and celery are great for helping clean food particles from your teeth. They all contain trace minerals which promote strong enamel and bone strength.

Celery is especially good, because its strings act like floss, clearing out food bits from between your teeth. Make sure to select several pieces from the crudité platter.

Nuts – These little nutritional powerhouses contain all kinds of beneficial minerals for your mouth. Eat a variety of nuts to get your daily dose of phosphorus. This mineral is essential for healthy enamel.

Pickles and sauerkraut – These fermented foods contain healthy bacteria called probiotics, which can neutralize the bad bacteria in your mouth that cause tooth decay. They also promote good digestion.

It is not uncommon to feel some tooth pain after a holiday. If you start experiencing pain, call your friends at Havrilla Center for Periodontics & Dental Implants. We are here to answer any other questions you have. Contact our Broomall office today!

The post How to Have a Great 4th of July BBQ (and Not Ruin Your Teeth)   appeared first on Havrilla Center for Periodontics & Dental Implants.

Candy Doesn’t Cause Cavities 

During last year’s Easter season, 486.6 million dollars was spent on chocolate Easter bunnies, and 91.3 million dollars was spent on Jellybeans. That’s a lot of candy! Believe it or not, the sugar in the candy is not what gives you cavities. It’s what happens after eating the sugar.

Some types of bacteria from the sugar form into plaque, which builds a sticky layer on your teeth. The plaque must be removed by daily brushing and flossing your teeth. If not removed, the bacteria (plaque) feeds on sugars, creating acids that destroy tooth enamel and create cavities in your teeth. Without dental treatment, cavities will go deeper into the layers of the tooth, causing pain and potential tooth loss.

Be Discriminating About the Candy You Buy for The Easter Basket 

Bad:

Sticky or Gummy Candy 

It wouldn’t be Easter without Jellybeans, but they are one of the candies that cause cavities. They are notorious for getting stuck in the grooves of your teeth where it’s difficult to brush properly. This can lead to tooth decay if you don’t have good brushing and flossing skills.

Sour Candies

Sour candies are acidic and constant exposure to the acid found in Warheads, Sour Skittles, etc. causes enamel erosion, which can lead to cavities and tooth loss.

Hard Candy

Jawbreakers, lollipops, and jolly ranchers, and hard mints are destructive for your teeth because they don’t dissolve right away. Sucking on this type of candy bathes your teeth in sweetness for a long time, leaving them awash with sugar. This type of candy can also chip or break your tooth because of the hardness of the candy.

Good:

Dark Chocolate

Even though dark chocolate contains sugar, it is good for your teeth. It contains a rich source of cocoa which thwarts the growth of the bacteria responsible for plaque buildup.

Take These Precautions to Prevent Cavities

Don’t Eat Candy All Day Long 

If you have an Easter basket full of sweets, choose a few pieces, and then set the basket aside. By distributing the candy, you won’t be eating it at will. Eating sweets all day results in your tooth enamel being exposed to cavity-causing acids around the clock.

Rinse Your Mouth After Eating Candy 

Although inclined to brush right after eating a sugar-laden snack, it can do more harm than good. Tooth enamel is softer while it’s under attack from the acids in your mouth. Waiting 30-60 minutes after eating will give your enamel a chance to re-harden. It’s important to rinse your mouth with water after eating a sweet or acidic treat.

Sugarless Gum Promotes Saliva

Chewing sugarless gum will help your saliva glands neutralize the acids that form in your mouth after eating sweets.

Routine Dental Appointments 

With a careful approach, you can enjoy some Easter candy, and stay cavity-free during this Easter season!

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Pregnancy increases the risk of periodontal (gum) disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About 60 to 75% of pregnant people have gingivitis, an early form of periodontal disease characterized by inflammation of the gums that causes redness, swelling, tenderness, and bleeding.

If left untreated, gum disease can lead to more serious dental issues, including bone loss and infection. Studies have also linked severe gum disease to negative pregnancy outcomes, like low birthweight and preterm birth—though more research needs to be conducted.

Naturally, you’re probably wondering how your oral health could impact your growing fetus. If you’re expecting or planning to become pregnant, here’s what you should know about gum disease and pregnancy, and what to do if you’re experiencing bleeding gums.

Causes:

There are several reasons why pregnant people have an increased risk of bleeding gums and gingivitis, including the following:

• Hormonal Factors: The primary cause of pregnancy gingivitis is hormonal changes, especially involving estrogen and progesterone. High levels of these hormones “correlate with an increase in dental plaque, a sticky mixture of bacteria, food, and debris,” says Joseph Dill, DDS, MBA, chief dental officer of the Delta Dental Plans Association. Plaque can harden, breed bacteria, and inflame the gingival tissue.
• Dietary Changes: Some pregnant people crave super-sweet items or other foods that aren’t otherwise part of their regular diet, which might increase the risk of dental plaque.
• Morning Sickness: Queasiness can cause an aversion to toothpaste. Morning sickness sufferers may also avoid brushing their teeth for fear of gagging.
• Salvia Production: Pregnant people may produce less saliva, which can also lead to increased plaque and therefore gingivitis. 

What to do:

If you’re pregnant and experiencing bleeding gums or other symptoms of gingivitis, it’s vital to see your dentist. They’ll give you a thorough cleaning to get rid of harmful plaque, tartar, and bacteria. Scaling and root planing (cleaning procedures that reach deeper beneath your gums) may sometimes be necessary.

During your appointment, the dentist may also repair any damaged dental work. They’ll advise you on proper oral care since prevention goes a long way toward keeping your mouth healthy while pregnant. Finally, the dentist may give you a prescription mouthwash.

Rest assured that treatment of pregnancy gum disease isn’t associated with adverse maternal or birth outcomes, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Furthermore, the American Dental Association says that dental X-rays are safe, as long as the provider uses abdominal and thyroid shielding.

For more information on caring for your gums and how we can help or to schedule an appointment, contact Havrilla Center of Periodontics & Dental Implants in Broomall, PA, today.

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