It’s common to experience swollen gums during pregnancy. But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it!

Eating right and keeping up with your obstetrician appointments are all part of a healthy pregnancy. But it’s also important to not forget about regular visits with your dentist!

It is critical to maintain your regular oral care routine while you’re expecting: pregnancy gingivitis is a common condition that causes your gums to swell, turn red, feel tender, and bleed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate between 60 percent and 75 percent of pregnant women have this form of gingivitis. Although it is yet another side effect of being pregnant, you still need to treat your swollen gums during pregnancy to protect not only your overall health but also that of your baby. Fortunately, the team at Espire Dental in Wyoming can help you with that!

Why causes pregnancy gingivitis?

When pregnant, your body releases estrogen and progesterone hormones to help the fetus grow. But those hormones affect your body in many ways, including your gums. An influx of estrogen and progesterone increases the blood flow to your gums, which can inflame and swell the gum tissues. Your body also has less chance to fight off bacteria and plaque on your teeth.

Pregnancy gingivitis typically resolves itself after you deliver your baby. However, it’s still vital to take care of your teeth and gums while you’re pregnant. Gingivitis is an early, treatable stage of gum disease. But if it progresses to periodontitis, the most severe form of gum disease, you could lose teeth as the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and tartar eats away at gum tissue. The gum line eventually separates from the tooth, forming a pocket that could become infected. The tooth becomes loose at that point, and you may lose it. 

Further, untreated periodontitis may cause pregnancy complications. A 2016 study found a link between periodontitis, low birth weight, and preterm birth. It’s all the more reason not to skip your dental appointments when expecting!

How to keep your gums healthy while pregnant

The months during pregnancy are a busy time. But in all the rush, don’t neglect your oral health! By caring for your gums and teeth, you’ll experience less discomfort from pregnancy gingivitis and maintain healthy gums after delivery. So remember these tips as you prepare for the birth of your little one:

Brush and floss daily. Cut down on bacteria and plaque on your teeth by brushing at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Bacteria also thrive in the narrow spaces between teeth. But a daily floss can reach those spaces.

Gargle with a warm water rinse. Add a teaspoon of salt to one cup of warm water and swirl in your mouth. If needed, your dentist may prescribe a prescription mouthwash.

Eat fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables packed with vitamin C are good for your gums and your baby. Avoid sugary, sticky foods such as raisins, dried fruit, and chewy candy. 

Visit your dentist. While some procedures, such as root canals, are recommended to be delayed until after delivery, you can still undergo regular cleanings. If pregnancy gingivitis is particularly bothersome, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings. Cleanings are safe during pregnancy but should be scheduled for the second trimester. Sitting in a dentist’s chair may be too uncomfortable by the third trimester. X-rays are also safe during pregnancy. 

Pregnancy gingivitis doesn’t have to interrupt your pregnancy, not when treatment is available at your nearby dentist’s office in Wyoming.

Always a good time to take care of your teeth

Schedule an appointment at Espire’s Cheyenne, Wyoming, location today! Our highly trained dentists can help you maintain good dental health during pregnancy. Don’t live near our Cheyenne, WY, office? Find one of our other locations near you.

Cheyenne, WY
7112 Commons Circle
Cheyenne, WY 82009