How does pregnancy affect periodontal health?

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy significantly influence periodontal health. During this time, there is an increase in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which can lead to changes in the gingival tissues. These hormonal changes can cause the gums to become more sensitive, swollen, and prone to bleeding, especially if oral hygiene is not maintained. The increased blood flow to the gingiva, as well as alterations in the immune response, contribute to the heightened inflammatory response observed in pregnant individuals.

While the other factors listed may have some relevance to pregnancy, they do not fully capture the complex interplay of hormones and periodontal health. For instance, while there could be a general trend toward improved oral hygiene habits for some, this is not universally observed. Similarly, a weakened immune response is seen in certain conditions, but pregnancy itself typically leads to a more complex immune status rather than a straightforward decrease in immunity. Enhanced healing ability is not a characteristic directly associated with pregnancy's influence on periodontal tissues. Therefore, the correct answer focuses on the direct impact of hormonal changes on gingival health during pregnancy.