Bleeding, swelling and over-sensitive gums are quite common pregnancy symptoms. Swollen and sore gums, which are more susceptible to bleeding, trouble many pregnant women. This condition is also called pregnancy gingivitis.

What causes pregnancy gingivitis?

It is found that women with perfectly fine dental hygiene have problems like bleeding gums during pregnancy. Due to rise in the level of pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, the gums start to swell and bleed. This problem is aggravated by brushing or flossing the teeth. However, brushing your teeth is really important for your dental health and must not be abandoned.

Pregnancy gingivitis occurs as the body reacts in a different manner to the bacteria causing plaque during pregnancy. The bacteria causing plaque is present in the mouth at all times. Using a tooth brush and even dental floss might irritate the area and trigger bleeding.

Why is dental hygiene important?

Good dental hygiene is very important during pregnancy because the changing hormonal levels might make the dental problems manifold. Dental diseases are found to have a relation with the health of the fetus too. It is really important that you consult the doctor if you have any severe dental problems during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester.

What should you do to manage swollen gums?

While swollen gums will continue to trouble you during pregnancy, you can do your bit to manage this problem. Some tips that can prove helpful are:

• Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and recommended toothpaste for sensitive teeth. To avoid any kind of dental problems, continue brushing your teeth regularly.

• If the toothbrush hurts the gums, you can rub ice in the region to alleviate the discomfort.

• Avoid applying any kind of unnecessary pressure on your gums. You can massage the gums gently using your fingers.

• Do not eat foods that cause dental decay. Avoid candy and other sugar containing products.

• Always keep your mouth clean. Use a mouthwash to rinse your mouth after every meal, so as to avoid build up of germs.

• Rinse your mouth with salt water on daily or weekly basis.

• Do not use any home remedy over the counter medications without seeking guidance of your doctor.

When to consult a doctor?

It is important to have regular dental checkups during pregnancy. If you have good oral hygiene, there is nothing to worry about. However, if gingivitis is left untreated, it may lead to a much serious dental disease called periodontitis. If you notice a small cyst in your gums, it is not normal. It is called pyogenic granuloma. Periodontitis is a chronic disease that can cause significant contribution to preterm labor. Hence such troubles must be treated right away.

After the delivery of the baby, the gums usually return to normal. If swelling or bleeding does not get better after the baby is born or gets worse during the pregnancy, it is best to contact your dentist right away.