Symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis

Now that you know the causes, let’s explore the symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis:

• Red and swollen gums during pregnancy
• Brushing or flossing your teeth causes your gums to bleed during pregnancy
• Tender gums in pregnancy and pain when chewing  

Should you be worried about gingivitis during pregnancy?

As noted about, mild gingivitis during pregnancy is very common and can be managed with the advice of your dentist and practising regular, thorough oral hygiene.

That being said, poor oral health can impact the health of your whole body, so in pregnancy it’s important to be mindful of your oral hygiene while you take careful care of the rest of your body. When harmful bacteria accumulate in your mouth, causing gum disease, they can also spread through the body.¹⁴

Studies indicate that untreated prenatal gum disease may impact pregnancy and increase the likelihood of complications – while brushing at least twice daily with an electric toothbrush to maintain your oral hygiene can help to guard against this. ^{14 15}

What should I do if my gums bleed during pregnancy?

Problems with gums in pregnancy have been linked to potential risks to your unborn baby, so, if you notice sensitive gums in pregnancy or any other signs of gum disease, you should visit your dentist straight away.⁷

Your dentist will advise you on the best course of pregnancy gingivitis treatment, so you can look after both your health and your baby.

How to prevent inflamed, bleeding and sore gums in pregnancy

Inflamed gums and pregnancy often go hand in hand. This means it is even more crucial than usual to know how to look after your mouth during this time. 

Now that you understand the causes, along with the symptoms to look out for, use the following tips to help you to prevent pregnancy gingivitis:

• Make sure you follow diligent and efficient oral health care. If you’re experiencing sensitive gums in pregnancy, the idea of reaching for the toothbrush might make you wince, but your daily oral hygiene should now be even more thorough than usual. The following steps will help you maintain healthy gums in pregnancy:
  

1. As usual, make sure to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes.
2. In addition to brushing, you should clean your interdental spaces with dental floss or an interdental cleaner like the Philips Sonicare Power Flosser.
3. Use an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash. To ensure your toothpaste has time to act fully, though, don’t use mouthwash straight after brushing.⁸

• Use the right toothbrush. It’s not just the method you use, but also the toothbrush you use that affects your oral health. For the best results during pregnancy, use a toothbrush that is gentle on your gums.
• Make sure you’re eating and drinking the right stuff. Having a healthy diet during pregnancy is good for your physical, mental and oral health. The following dietary choices will help you take care of your gums during pregnancy:

1. Foods high in vitamins and minerals are key for your oral health.⁹ However, too much vitamin A can cause problems in pregnancy, so avoid liver, pâté and vitamin A supplements.¹⁰
2. Cut down on sugary, acidic food and drinks, such as carbonated drinks and sweets.¹¹
3. Stick to healthy snacks such as vegetables, fresh fruit or plain yoghurt.¹²

• Stop smoking. Tobacco products can wreak havoc on your physical and oral health whether you are pregnant or not. Smoking raises the risk of gum disease⁸ and can also increase your risk of other complications in pregnancy, such as premature birth, low birth weight or stillbirth.¹³
• Rinse your mouth with water. This is particularly key if you are suffering from morning sickness during pregnancy. Drinking or rinsing your mouth with plain water each time you’re sick will help prevent damage to your teeth caused by the acidity.¹
• Have your teeth professionally cleaned. For optimal tooth and gum care during pregnancy, dentists recommend one cleaning during the first trimester (the first three months of pregnancy) and a second during the last trimester (the final three months of pregnancy).³

Tip: If you’re experiencing morning sickness, do not brush your teeth right after being sick. The acid in vomit softens the enamel on your teeth, and brushing too soon will do more harm than good. The NHS recommends waiting about an hour before brushing your teeth.¹ If you’re worried about smelly breath, chew some sugar-free gum containing xylitol.

 
Even if you follow all the steps to maintain good oral hygiene, it is still possible to get inflamed and tender gums in pregnancy.

With this guide we have shown you some simple steps to help you recognise the symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis and prevent it from occurring. Don’t forget, however, if you have any concerns or are suffering from sore gums in pregnancy despite thorough oral hygiene, contact your dentist for advice.