Australian Dental Council (ADC) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct response is based on the understanding that pregnancy causes hormonal changes that significantly affect the oral cavity, especially leading to the enlargement of the gingivae. During pregnancy, there is an increase in levels of hormones such as progesterone and estrogen, which can enhance blood flow to the gingival tissue. This hyperemia, combined with the body's immune response during pregnancy, contributes to the overgrowth of the gingiva, known as pregnancy gingivitis or pregnancy tumors.

This condition can result in swollen, red, and bleeding gums, as hormonal shifts create an environment that may support the proliferation of certain tissues. The increase in hormones also influences the inflammatory response in the gingival tissue, exacerbating the condition if accompanied by poor oral hygiene.

Vitamin deficiency, while it can affect overall health and oral health, is not primarily the cause of pregnancy-related gingival enlargement. Similarly, allergic reactions and mechanical irritation may exacerbate existing gingival conditions but are not the main drivers of the specific changes observed during pregnancy. Understanding the role of hormonal changes is fundamental in recognizing dental conditions associated with pregnancy.