Many changes occur in your body during pregnancy, including pain, emotions, and other experiences you haven't had before. One of these conditions, which may also come as a surprise, is bleeding gums or gingivitis. Even so, this should not be a cause for concern because it's completely normal. Moreover, it's advisable to inform your dentist of your new condition immediately.

At Dr. Brite, we delight in providing natural-based oral care products of high quality. These products are non-toxic, environment friendly,  and affordable for everyone. If you want to get back your bright white smile, give these oral products a trial.

Read on for more information about gingivitis during pregnancy.

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What Is Pregnancy Gingivitis?

Approximately60 to 75% of pregnant womenexperience bleeding gum problems. When this condition occurs, you notice swelling on your gum and maybe sore, resulting in bleeding. This bleeding transpires from a buildup of plaque on your teeth.

Pregnancy hormonal changes increase your gum's vulnerability to plaque, causing gum bleeding/gingivitis. This gum disease is mild and causes redness, irritation, and inflammation.

Due to the painless status of the disease, there may be a temptation to delay in looking for treatment. It's essential to note that if you don't seek treatment immediately, it can lead to serious gum tissue problems like Periodontitis.

If you practice good dental hygiene during pregnancy, gingivitis is less likely to harm you or your baby. Moreover, the condition disappears soon after birth—for most pregnancies.   

When Should You Look For Bleeding Gum During Pregnancy?

Usually, you'll notice bleeding gums during your third trimester when pregnancy hormones (progesterone and estrogen). However, the condition may start being more prevalent in your second trimester due to hormonal changes.

If you experience tender gums during your first trimester, it could be an early indication of pregnancy. At this point, it's a brilliant idea to take a pregnancy test and check your oral hygiene routine. Also, when your gingivitis starts before pregnancy, the condition may become more aggravated.

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Causes of Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy

Gingivitis is a mild gum disease with various causes, including the following.

Morning sickness

The acid in the stomach produced when you throw up can cause gum bleeding. Therefore, you should rinse your mouth after the occurrence to prevent gingivitis. You may use plain water or add one teaspoon of baking soda into one cup of water. If you want to brush your teeth, do so after one hour to avoid the softened enamel by the acid.

Toothpaste Repugnance

One of the changes that may occur to your body is disliking your toothpaste's smell. The experience may lead to you avoiding your brushing routine, and consequently, your teeth may start bleeding. Instead of evading brushing, use a milder flavor or change to your trusted brand.

Low Saliva Production

The decline of saliva in your mouth during pregnancy causes the accumulation of carbs on your teeth' surface longer. As a result, there is a buildup of plaque, which has high bacteria levels that cause gum disease and tooth decay.

Saliva Changes

The amount of saliva lowers while its acidity increases during pregnancy. These changes make your saliva less efficient in protecting your teeth and gum. The high acidity levels raise the risk of tooth and gum erosion.

Change of Diet

Among the many changes during pregnancy is food preference when women experience taste changes. Some of the food choices you make may be unhealthy and lead to poor dental health, including gum bleeding.

Hormones

The primary cause of sensitive and swollen gums is the pregnancy hormone. Your body produces progesterone and estrogen hormones during pregnancy that stream through your blood, increasing your mucous membranes' blood flow.

Signs of Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy

In addition to bleeding, you may have other symptoms of gingivitis which includes the following:

Red swollen gum: Besides the bleeding, you may also observe red, swollen, and sore gum. Although these inflations may be painful, the experience is normal, and hence, it shouldn't worry you.

Tumors of pregnancy:  0.5 to 5% of pregnant women usually have red, raw swellings between their teeth. Although the condition (also known as pyogenic granulomas) sounds dangerous, it's generally harmless. The most probable cause of these swellings is excess plaque, which will disappear after delivery.

Ideal Treatment Tactics for Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy

Below are the essential ways of handling gingivitis during pregnancy.

Anti-Gingivitis Mouthwash

If you cannot brush or floss your teeth, you could use a mouthwash to maintain proper dental health. Dr. Brite Anti-Plaque Mouthwash-Mint protects your teeth from plaque attacks.

This product contains a naturally occurring mineral Hydroxyapatite, that builds 97% of your enamel. It's also a scientifically proven whitener, strengthener, and protects your teeth from fluoride. This mouthwash naturally restores your enamel, is gluten-free, and has a revitalizing mint flavor.

Anti-Gingivitis Toothpaste

If you develop a dislike of your toothpaste, it's advisable to try another brand other than stopping the use of toothpaste when brushing.

Plaque buildup may make you uncomfortable while smiling. Anti- Plaque Toothpaste-Mint from Dr. Brite is non-toxic and helps you fight fuzz on your teeth and get back the shine of your smile. The product is gluten-free, restores your enamel naturally, and has revitalizing abilities.

Proper Oral Hygiene

Brush your teeth (at least twice daily) using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid sensitive gum irritation. For a healthy and gentle clean gum, Oral-B Sensi-Soft Manual Toothbrush is an ideal choice for you. The toothbrush has super-soft bristles that prevent the erosion of your gum.

Flossing

Flossing gets rid of the foods that stick between your teeth. It's, therefore, necessary to floss your teeth even if you're too tired during your pregnancy. Willow Pass Dental Care has various flossing tools that ease your flossing and keep plaque off your teeth.

Inform Your Dentist

Your dentist may advise you to have regular checkups to keep plaque away. During the early stages of your pregnancy, let your dentist know that you're expectant. That helps avoid X-rays and any anesthesia-related work. The recommended time to visit your dentist is at the start of the first trimester.

Maintain Prenatal Vitamin Intake

Vitamin C is crucial for perfect gum health, while calcium gives you strong bones and teeth. You can find these minerals in your prenatal vitamins and pregnancy-suitable foods such as fruits and dairy.

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Home Remedies to Curb Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy

Here are a few ways to control the bleeding of gums at home.

Salty Water

Rinsing your mouth with salty water is an effective ancient home remedy to handle gingivitis problems as it dries up bacteria. Mix the salt with baking soda to form a hydrogen peroxide solution for better results. You can use this solution to massage your gum and brush your teeth.

Oil Pulling

This remedy requires you to swish oil in your mouth for some time to treat your bleeding gums. Although the American Dental Association has not enough evidence on this, a few studies show that the method is effective. Use edible oil and consult your dentist before you try it.

Reduce Sugar Intake

Even though you experience sugar cravings, minimize your sugar intake because excess sugar is harmful to your teeth. You may replace the sugar with vegetables and fruits as they're beneficial to your gum.

Crunchy and Dairy Foods

Yogurt, cheese, and milk are dairy products that contain calcium. This nutrient strengthens your teeth. Crunchy foods like celery and carrots are also helpful due to their crunchy factor. These foods remove plaque from your teeth. In addition, chewing enables your mouth to produce more saliva, neutralizing any destructive acid and washes away food particles. You could also go the vegetable way! Veggies have low sugar levels and have high water and fiber content helpful in cleaning your teeth.

Herbs and Oils

You can reduce bacteria and inflammation in your mouth by rinsing it with herbs and edible oils. Over-the-counter products containing lavender oils, eucalyptus globules, cinnamon bark, red thyme, peppermint, and Echinacea herbs, can reduce plaque and gum inflammation. A herb called calendula or marigold is also helpful for sore gums. Arnica is also an excellent remedy for soreness. You can also add it to dilute robust solutions such as pure oregano oil, which can cause damage if used at full strength.

Final Verdict

Pregnancy is exciting, especially if it's your first time. However, it can be scary too. One of the things that could cause discomfort during pregnancy is bleeding gums. Mostly, this condition begins in your second trimester. That should not worry you because gingivitis is common in most pregnant women.

From the information provided in this article, it's clear that the most effective way to deal with bleeding gums is maintaining excellent dental hygiene. Dr. Brite Oral Care Shop has all the products you need to keep your dental health in good shape.

Also, be sure to visit your dentist regularly throughout your pregnancy. The specialist can detect early signs of gingivitis and advise you on the way forward. Additionally, you can have professional teeth cleaning before getting pregnant.

FAQs

1. Is it normal for gums to bleed during pregnancy?

Yes, it is normal for gums to bleed during pregnancy. This is because the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can make the gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding. You can help protect your gums from bleeding by brushing and flossing regularly, and by seeing your dentist for regular checkups.

2. How can I stop my gums from bleeding during pregnancy?

There are a few things you can do to help stop your gums from bleeding during pregnancy. First, make sure you are brushing and flossing your teeth regularly. Second, try to avoid sugary foods and drinks, which can cause bacteria to grow in your mouth. Third, see your dentist for a check-up and ask for advice on how to keep your gums healthy.

3. Can gingivitis harm my baby?

Yes, gingivitis can harm your baby. If you have gingivitis and are pregnant, the bacteria in your mouth can travel to your baby through the placenta. This can cause your baby to develop a serious infection called neonatal periodontitis.

4. Can gingivitis cause miscarriage?

An expectant mother may experience miscarriage or stillbirth as a result of periodontal disease. The cause may even be as simple as gestational gingivitis, something that is easily overlooked, even by doctors. To limit the effects of gum disease on pregnancy, you need to control inflammation.

5. Will pregnancy gingivitis go away?

Yes, pregnancy gingivitis will usually go away after the baby is born. However, it's important to brush and floss regularly during pregnancy to help prevent gingivitis from developing in the first place.