Pregnancy can be an exciting time for expecting mothers. However, it can also bring about a plethora of physical changes that can leave women feeling uncomfortable and worried. One such change is bleeding gums during pregnancy.
Bleeding gums can be alarming, but it is a common occurrence among expectant mothers. It is estimated that approximately 50 per cent of women experience gum problems during their pregnancy.
If you are experiencing bleeding gums during pregnancy, there is no need to panic; it is usually not a cause for concern. However, it is essential to understand why it happens and what you can do to prevent and manage it. Let’s learn more about it in this article.
1. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause bleeding gums
Bleeding gums during pregnancy can be a real pain in the mouth (literally). But did you know that one of the main culprits behind this issue is actually hormonal changes?
Yup, that’s right! During pregnancy, your body is going through all sorts of transformations to support the growing life inside of you, and sometimes that can affect your oral health. Specifically, the elevated levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone can make your gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding when you brush or floss.
While it’s not exactly the most fun thing to deal with, rest assured that it’s a common issue and there are some things you can do to help alleviate the discomfort.
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2. Brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent bleeding gums
If you are experiencing bleeding gums during pregnancy, don’t worry, you’re not alone. A lot of pregnant women face this issue due to the changes in their hormones that increase blood flow to the gums. However, this doesn’t mean you have to put up with it.
One easy thing you can do to prevent bleeding gums is to brush and floss your teeth regularly. This helps get rid of any plaque or food particles that may be aggravating your gums. Plus, it’s good for your overall oral hygiene too! So, next time you’re brushing your teeth, make sure you’re giving your gums some TLC too.
3. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritation
One easy trick to help reduce irritation and prevent further bleeding is to switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush. Stiff or hard bristles can cause even more irritation to your already sensitive gums, so opt for something gentle instead. By using a soft-bristled toothbrush, you can protect your gums and continue to maintain your oral health throughout your pregnancy.
4. Visit your dentist for a checkup and cleaning
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One of the best things you can do if you are experiencing bleeding gums during pregnancy is to visit your dentist for a checkup and cleaning.
Pregnancy can cause hormonal changes that can make your gums more sensitive, so it’s important to have a professional check things out. Your dentist can also remove any plaque or tartar buildup that may be contributing to your bleeding gums. Plus, a dental checkup is a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have about your oral health during pregnancy.
5. When to worry about bleeding gums during pregnancy
If you’ve noticed bleeding gums during pregnancy, take a deep breath and relax because it’s totally normal. In fact, about half of women experience bleeding gums during pregnancy due to an increase in hormones that can cause the gums to swell, become more sensitive and bleed easily. So, don’t panic!
However, while bleeding gums during pregnancy is common and usually harmless, there are some cases where it may be a cause for concern.
If bleeding gums are accompanied by severe pain, swelling, or other symptoms such as fever, it may indicate an infection or a more serious underlying condition. Additionally, if bleeding gums persist despite good oral hygiene practices, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare provider.
So, there you have it, ladies! Bleeding gums during pregnancy is nothing to fret about, but it’s important to take care of your mouth during this time. Keep calm and carry on, soon-to-be mamas!
Image Source: iStock
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