Pregnancy is a magical and life-changing experience, but it can also bring some health surprises. Bleeding gums are just one of those less commonly recognized difficulties experienced by many pregnant women. It’s pretty common, especially in the second trimester, but it isn’t something to just brush off. If you’re dealing with symptoms like bleeding gums, it’s evidence that your body and oral health could use some extra care.

Even though some bleeding of the gums in pregnancy is temporary and related to hormonal changes, it doesn’t mean there aren’t direct effects of this bleeding, or ways of addressing it. After all, the gums are integral to overall oral health, and turning a blind eye could result in worse dental issues down the road.

Why Do Your Gums Bleed When You’re Pregnant?

You need to be aware that pregnancy can cause a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. That’s when your gums become swollen and inflamed, and it’s all due to those hormonal shifts, and it’s more common than you think. As your body begins to adjust, it may react to the bacteria in your mouth, which can trigger an irritation of your gums. “If your gums are swelling, tender, or bleed easily (e.g, when you are brushing or flossing), that may be pregnancy gingivitis.

But the hormones aren’t the only players at work here. Pregnancy also alters your body’s immune system, which may be less effective in battling bad bacteria in the mouth. This gives bacteria time to accumulate, causing real problems if it goes untreated; in this case, we are talking about gum disease. It’s a vicious spiral, since poor gum health allows bacteria to get deeper into your gums and starts to affect the bone structure supporting your teeth. That’s when you begin to get periodontal disease.

It’s a bit of a serious thing. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, and now you’re not just dealing with inflamed gums. One way, of course, you can end up is that you end up losing teeth, and I don’t think anybody wants to think about that when they’re currently growing a little human.

Why Do Bleeding Gums Matter?

Now, you might say, “It’s just a little bleeding, it will heal itself,” and sometimes that’s true. Bleeding gums, especially if they come and go, can be an early indicator of gum disease. While mild now, the health conditions are associated with poor pregnancy outcomes. Studies have suggested that women with gum disease in pregnancy may be more likely to deliver babies that are both of low birth weight and preterm. It is not a certainty, of course, but the odds increase.

The good news is that pregnancy gingivitis is generally reversible with the proper treatment. But if you don’t manage it, it can develop into a more serious form of gum disease, and that could eventually start taking a toll on your overall health. It’s a lot to take in, isn’t it?

You should also be aware that the oral bacteria responsible for the development of gum disease don’t just remain in the oral cavity; they can enter the bloodstream and impact other areas of your body as well. So, it’s not only gum inflammation; it’s your overall health, and in this case, your pregnancy.

What Are The Signs That You Need To See A Dentist?

It’s not always easy to know when you should strive to visit your dentist, but here are some signs that one would be wise not to ignore. If inflammation of the gums becomes a problem for you during your pregnancy, set an appointment with your dentist before it gets out of control.

Here are a few signs that things may be more complicated than pregnancy gingivitis:

• Gums that bleed excessively and do not stop when you brush or floss them.
• Tender or painful-to-the-touch, swollen gums.
• Bad breath that won’t go away, no matter how much you brush or use mouthwash.
• Loose teeth or sensation of shifting.

Even morning sickness can hurt gum health. Vomiting gets stomach acids that can eat away at your enamel and irritate your gums, making it easier for bacteria to get a foothold. So if you have that and you’re also experiencing gum bleeding, then it’s probably worth discussing with your dentist.

How To Prevent Gum Disease When Pregnant?

The good news is that preventing gum disease during pregnancy doesn’t involve anything extreme, just a bit of extra attention. One of the best ways you can do that is to have a strong routine of good oral care. Brush your teeth twice a day gently with fluoride toothpaste, and do not skip flossing, even if your gums are sore. Flossing will enable you to access the bacteria between your teeth that your toothbrush is unable to get to.

If you have pregnancy-induced gum inflammation, an antibacterial mouthwash may help combat the inflammation-irritating bacteria. And yes, always consult your dentist to see if the mouthwash is safe for a pregnant woman.

Another important part of maintaining healthy gums is regular dental visits. When you’re pregnant, your hormones can leave you more vulnerable to gum disease. So dropping by the dentist for a visit more frequently (say, every six months or earlier if necessary) can help keep things in check.

Is There A Cure For Pregnancy Gingivitis?

Absolutely. The good news is that pregnancy gingivitis can be embed with some professional assistance. Your teeth might be cleaned by a dentist who can scrape off the dental plaque that is causing the problem. In general, pregnancy gingivitis treated in its early stages will resolve with improved oral hygiene and perhaps some dietary changes.

But left untreated, it can progress to a more serious condition called periodontal disease, which is more difficult to treat and can cause more serious problems, such as tooth loss.

And while pregnancy tumors (which are noncancerous growths that can develop on the gums during pregnancy) can also be worrisome, they are generally temporary and will usually disappear after delivery. But still, feel free to bring it up at your dental appointments. If they don’t go away on their own or become painful, your dentist can help you take care of them.

The Takeaway

Caring for your gums during pregnancy may seem like one more item on your already too-long to-do list, but it’s vitally important to both your and your baby’s health. You shouldn’t ignore bleeding gums, and you can do a little more work to keep them healthy and reduce the chances of more serious dental issues in the future. Another thing to remember: if you notice bleeding gums during pregnancy, it’s always better to be safe; call your dentist right away!

So if you’re seeing some gum bleeding, some gum inflammation, or some other oral health issues, don’t wait. The above information about oral health tips and general recommendations can help you and your little one stay in the best possible health. Your gums will thank you.

Bleeding Gums? Don’t Let It Threaten Your Pregnancy

If you’re experiencing gingivitis, bleeding gums, or other symptoms such as tenderness or swelling, don’t wait. That mild gum irritation you think you have could easily progress to the full-blown gum disease, which will increase the odds of experiencing a bad outcome during pregnancy, such as preterm delivery.

At Comfort Care Dental, we take your oral health seriously, especially during pregnancy, when increased blood flow, plaque buildup, and harmful bacteria can raise the stakes for both you and your developing baby.

Our professional dentists ensure you stay ahead of dental problems with gentle, thorough cleanings, disease monitoring, and tips for proper oral care, including using a soft-bristle toothbrush, maintaining a nutritious diet, and visiting your dentist regularly. We emphasize prevention, early intervention, and ongoing disease management so that a more severe form of gum disease never has the opportunity to develop.

Protect your smile and your baby’s well-being. Book an appointment with Comfort Care Dental now.