Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy

Approximately half of the pregnant women have swollen, red, and tender gums that bleed while flossing or brushing. This condition is called Pregnancy Gingivitis., a mild form of gum disease.

Pregnancy Gingivitis is partly caused by hormonal changes that make their gums more sensitive to bacterial plaque . Gingivitis can leave the gums tender and swollen & make the gum bleeds while brushing or flossing. 

Symptoms Of Gum Disease During Pregnancy

. Swollen gums

. Redness along the gum margins 

. Bleeding gums while brushing  and flossing

. Sore gums

. Bad breath 

. Gum recession

. Pregnancy tumors

. Mobile teeth

Complication – 

Gingivitis during pregnancy or at other times is a mild form of gum disease. but it can progress to periodontitis, increasing the risk of preterm delivery, low birth weight, or preeclampsia.

Maintaining good care before, during, and after pregnancy can help prevent these complications and keep the baby as healthy as possible during gestation & after delivery.

Pregnancy Gingivitis is partly caused by hormonal changes that make their gums more sensitive to bacterial plaque.

Precautions to be taken – 

1. Brush the tooth gently twice a day, with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. Excess pressure on the gums can cause bleeding and hence brush the tooth lightly.
3. Proper oral -care during pregnancy is the best way to prevent pregnancy Gingivitis.
4. Avoid intensive brushing, as it can Exacerbate inflammation.
5. limit sugary food & those that stick to the tooth surface,
6. Make sure that pregnant women should get enough vitamin C and calcium which are nutrients that promote the health of teeth & gums.
7. use an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash rinse when required.

Pregnancy tumor- 

Sometimes pregnant women develop “Pregnancy tumors" on the gums. These are often small lumps or nodules on the gums, which can bleed while brushing or flossing. The relatively rare lump is called Pregnancy tumor or Pyogenic Granuloma. It is not cancer but rather just swelling that happens most often between teeth.

Pyogenic Granuloma is a smooth or lobulated exophytic lesion .The younger lesion is more likely to be red , due to a large number of blood vessels, while the older one’s changes into pink color .These lumps are benign and usually go away after childbirth.

 Conclusion –

Proper oral -care during pregnancy is the best way to prevent pregnancy Gingivitis.if u are maintaining regular cleaning 2 times a day & proper gargling of mouth then you can avoid gingivitis during pregnancy