Sensitive or Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy: Causes & Relief
09 Apr 2025
Noticing sensitive or bleeding gums during pregnancy? You’re not alone! Pregnancy gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) affects up to 70% of pregnant women, making gums more prone to swelling, tenderness, and bleeding—especially when brushing or flossing.
The good news? With proper care, pregnancy-related gum issues are temporary and manageable!
Let’s explore why it happens, how to relieve discomfort, and when to see your dentist.
This can lead to red, swollen gums that bleed easily—a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis (a more serious gum infection linked to preterm birth).
This can weaken enamel and irritate gum tissue, leading to sensitivity. Rinse your mouth with water or a baking soda solution after vomiting to neutralize acid.
Brush twice daily with gentle, circular motions.
Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel. Avoid brushing too hard—it can worsen gum irritation!
If gums bleed, keep flossing gently—it means they need more care, not less. Flossing regularly reduces inflammation over time!
Look for pregnancy-safe mouthwashes like those containing chlorhexidine or xylitol. Avoid mouthwashes with alcohol, which can dry out gums.
Helps reduce swelling and kill bacteria naturally.
Calcium (milk, yogurt, leafy greens) supports strong teeth and bones.
Avoid too much sugar, which feeds harmful bacteria.
Let your dentist know you're pregnant—dental cleanings are safe!
If you develop severe gum problems, professional treatment can help prevent complications. Gum disease has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight—so don’t skip dental visits!
Receding gums or loose teeth (signs of advanced gum disease).
Bad breath that won’t go away (may indicate infection).
Painful lumps or sores on the gums. Your dentist can safely treat gum issues during pregnancy—don’t ignore symptoms!
Why Do Gums Bleed More During Pregnancy?
Several pregnancy-related changes make gums more sensitive:1. Increased Hormones (Estrogen & Progesterone)
Pregnancy hormones increase blood flow to the gums, making them swollen and more prone to bleeding.2. Pregnancy Gingivitis (Inflammation of the Gums)
Higher hormone levels also make gums more sensitive to plaque buildup.This can lead to red, swollen gums that bleed easily—a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis (a more serious gum infection linked to preterm birth).
3. Morning Sickness & Acid Exposure
Frequent vomiting (morning sickness) exposes teeth and gums to stomach acid.This can weaken enamel and irritate gum tissue, leading to sensitivity. Rinse your mouth with water or a baking soda solution after vomiting to neutralize acid.
4. Changes in the Immune System
Your immune system is naturally suppressed during pregnancy, making it harder for your body to fight off gum infections.5. Increased Blood Volume & Blood Vessel Sensitivity
Extra blood volume during pregnancy makes capillaries in the gums more fragile, leading to easier bleeding.How to Prevent & Relieve Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy
1. Brush Gently with a Soft-Bristle Toothbrush 🪥
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to reduce irritation.Brush twice daily with gentle, circular motions.
Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel. Avoid brushing too hard—it can worsen gum irritation!
2. Floss Daily (Even If Your Gums Bleed!)
Flossing removes plaque between teeth, preventing gum inflammation.If gums bleed, keep flossing gently—it means they need more care, not less. Flossing regularly reduces inflammation over time!
3. Use an Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
Antibacterial mouthwashes (like warm salt water or alcohol-free mouthwashes) can reduce swelling and kill bacteria.Look for pregnancy-safe mouthwashes like those containing chlorhexidine or xylitol. Avoid mouthwashes with alcohol, which can dry out gums.
4. Rinse with Salt Water for Natural Relief
Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in warm water and swish for 30 seconds.Helps reduce swelling and kill bacteria naturally.
5. Eat a Gum-Healthy Diet
Vitamin C (citrus, bell peppers, strawberries) strengthens gums.Calcium (milk, yogurt, leafy greens) supports strong teeth and bones.
Avoid too much sugar, which feeds harmful bacteria.
6. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps wash away bacteria and keeps gums healthy.7. See Your Dentist Regularly
Schedule a dental check-up early in pregnancy to prevent gum issues.Let your dentist know you're pregnant—dental cleanings are safe!
If you develop severe gum problems, professional treatment can help prevent complications. Gum disease has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight—so don’t skip dental visits!
When to Call Your Dentist
See your dentist if you experience: Persistent gum pain, swelling, or bleeding (even after good oral care).Receding gums or loose teeth (signs of advanced gum disease).
Bad breath that won’t go away (may indicate infection).
Painful lumps or sores on the gums. Your dentist can safely treat gum issues during pregnancy—don’t ignore symptoms!
