Bleeding gums during pregnancy: What should you do?

Pregnancy is the most beautiful phase of a woman’s life. But with this happiness comes physical pain too. Pregnancy affects your overall health, including oral health. If you are experiencing this phase of life, you have to be very careful about your oral health. During pregnancy, you will come across a myriad of oral complications. One of the many oral problems is bleeding gums. Though bleeding gums during pregnancy is not a serious problem to worry about, it is imperative that women take care of their oral hygiene.

What causes gum bleeding during pregnancy?

Gum bleeding during pregnancy can be a sign of pregnancy gingivitis which is experienced by about half of the pregnant women. This happens due to the hormonal changes during pregnancy. These hormonal changes are a result of increased levels of progesterone, which cause an increased response by plaque-causing bacteria. The inflammation causes the gums to swell up and result in bleeding gums while brushing or flossing your teeth.

What should you do?

Pregnancy gingivitis or bleeding gums during pregnancy is commonly found during the second and eighth month of pregnancy. Here is what you should do to ensure proper oral health during the critical stage of pregnancy.

Regularly brush your teeth

It is recommended that you continue to brush twice a day even during pregnancy . Brushing helps to clear away plaque and keep the mouth clean. Also,use a soft bristle toothbrush and brush gently as rough brushing can exacerbate the bleeding of your gums. Brushing your teeth using an anti-plaque toothpaste will keep your mouth protected from gingivitis causing bacteria . Furthermore, flossing followed by brushing will help in removing food particles stuck in between the teeth thereby preventing the formation of bacteria causing gingivitis.

Eat healthy food

During pregnancy, you must eat food that is rich in vitamins and minerals. A healthy and balanced diet not only helps you and your baby to be in good health but also enables you to maintain good oral health. Eating healthy, crunchy fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products, and drinking lots of water helps to keep your mouth hydrated and healthy. Stay away from sugary food and caffeinated products as they can attack your teeth and gums and cause problems.

Visit a dental professional

One of the best ways to healthy is to remain in close contact with your dentist. Regular visits to your dentist at least twice a year, especially when you’re pregnant will help the dentist to continuously monitor your oral health and tackle any problems promptly.

At Signature Smilez Family Dental, you can be assured to get the right dental services for the problems you face during pregnancy. Book an appointment now for your routine dental checkup.