Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy: Causes, Prevention & Treatment
16 Mar 2025
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If you’ve noticed your gums bleeding when brushing or flossing during pregnancy, you’re not alone! Bleeding gums (pregnancy gingivitis) are common due to hormonal changes, affecting nearly 60-70% of pregnant women.
While this can be uncomfortable, the good news is that it’s manageable and usually temporary. Let’s explore why it happens, how to prevent it, and safe remedies to keep your gums healthy throughout pregnancy.
Higher risk of preterm birth & low birth weight – Studies suggest a link between gum disease and pregnancy complications. That’s why it’s important to take care of your oral health during pregnancy!
Use gentle, circular motions instead of aggressive scrubbing. Tip: Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or sooner if bristles are worn.
Be gentle to avoid worsening gum irritation. Tip: If flossing is painful, try a water flosser for a gentler clean.
Warm salt water rinses (½ teaspoon salt in a cup of warm water) can soothe irritated gums. Tip: Avoid mouthwashes with alcohol or harsh chemicals.
Eat foods rich in:
Tell your dentist you’re pregnant—they may suggest extra cleanings if your gums are inflamed. Tip: Dental visits are safe during pregnancy, but the second trimester is best for non-emergency treatments.
Persistent bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth.
Loose teeth or gum recession.
Bleeding that doesn’t stop or worsens over time. These could be signs of gum disease, which needs professional treatment.
Why Do Gums Bleed More During Pregnancy?
1. Hormonal Changes
- Increased progesterone and estrogen make your gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation.
- This leads to swollen, red, and bleeding gums—a condition called pregnancy gingivitis.
2. Increased Blood Flow
- Pregnancy increases blood circulation, making your gums more delicate and likely to bleed.
3. Bacteria Build-Up & Plaque Sensitivity
- Higher hormone levels can weaken your body’s response to plaque, leading to gum irritation and bleeding.
4. Morning Sickness & Acid Erosion
- Frequent vomiting can expose your teeth and gums to stomach acids, increasing sensitivity.
5. Changes in Diet & Cravings
- Increased sugar intake or cravings for sweets and carbs can contribute to plaque build-up and gum inflammation.
Is Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy Dangerous?
Mild gum bleeding is normal, but if left untreated, it can lead to: Gum disease (Periodontitis) – Can cause tooth loss and more severe inflammation.Higher risk of preterm birth & low birth weight – Studies suggest a link between gum disease and pregnancy complications. That’s why it’s important to take care of your oral health during pregnancy!
How to Prevent & Treat Bleeding Gums
1. Brush Gently & Use a Soft Toothbrush 🪥
Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush to avoid irritating gums.Use gentle, circular motions instead of aggressive scrubbing. Tip: Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or sooner if bristles are worn.
2. Floss Daily to Remove Plaque
Flossing helps prevent plaque build-up between teeth.Be gentle to avoid worsening gum irritation. Tip: If flossing is painful, try a water flosser for a gentler clean.
3. Use a Pregnancy-Safe Mouthwash
Alcohol-free, antimicrobial mouthwashes can reduce bacteria and gum inflammation.Warm salt water rinses (½ teaspoon salt in a cup of warm water) can soothe irritated gums. Tip: Avoid mouthwashes with alcohol or harsh chemicals.
4. Stay Hydrated & Eat a Balanced Diet
Drink plenty of water to wash away bacteria and keep gums healthy.Eat foods rich in:
- Vitamin C (oranges, strawberries, bell peppers) – Strengthens gums.
- Calcium (milk, cheese, yogurt) – Keeps teeth strong.
- Omega-3s (salmon, walnuts) – Helps reduce gum inflammation.
5. Keep Up with Dental Checkups
Schedule a dental cleaning every 6 months (or more if needed).Tell your dentist you’re pregnant—they may suggest extra cleanings if your gums are inflamed. Tip: Dental visits are safe during pregnancy, but the second trimester is best for non-emergency treatments.
When to Call Your Dentist
While mild gum bleeding is common, call your dentist if you notice: Severe swelling, redness, or pus around gums.Persistent bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth.
Loose teeth or gum recession.
Bleeding that doesn’t stop or worsens over time. These could be signs of gum disease, which needs professional treatment.
