About half of all Americans, no matter how healthy they are, are more likely to develop oral health problems: Women.
"Women need to be aware that they are at higher risk for periodontal disease and gum disease during puberty, pregnancy, their menstrual cycle each month, and then menopause," says Cram. "We know there is a correlation between high hormone levels in the body and inflammation in the gums surrounding the teeth."
When hormone levels are very high, explains Cram, women can be more sensitive to a small amount of plaque or bacteria.
"For example, if you weren't pregnant, and you forgot to floss for a couple of days, it probably wouldn't be an issue," says Cram. "But if you are pregnant and forget to floss, and plaque collects, you can get these swollen, painful growths in your gums that you otherwise probably wouldn't have."
Being pregnant and having periodontal disease may also put your baby at risk: "Studies show that pregnant women with periodontal disease have higher risk of premature labor." Another risk is possible low birth weight. "It could be due to the inflammation and bacteria in the mouth that makes its way into the bloodstream," she says.
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