Bleeding Swollen Gums During Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, you may notice that your gums bleed easily when you brush your teeth. What in the world is going on here?

During pregnancy, the increase in your volume of circulation and supply of certain hormones may cause tenderness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. A lack of vitamin C in your diet may also contribute to this condition.

Be sure that you continue to see your dentist regularly during pregnancy. Dno't neglect the proper care of your teeth and gums. Sometimes the discomfort or pain keep women from maintaining their teeth as well as they did pre-pregnancy.

An antiseptic mouthwash, such as Listerine, keeps your mouth feeling fresh and may reduce the potential for gum infections. A professional cleaning of your teeth and gums early in pregnancy, and perhaps again befor eyou deliver, is a good idea. If you routinely require prophylactic use of antibiotics before dental work because of mitral valve prolapse or a similar condition, be sure your dentist knows you are pregnant. You must take an antibiotic that is safe for you and your baby. It's best for your dentist to know that you are pregnant also so that you may avoid any routine x-rays that are generally taken in the course of your dental care/examinations.

Vitamin C, which is best used by your body when taken naturally as part of your daily diet, helps tooth and gum tissues to be strong. If your gums or teeth become extremely painful, consult with your doctor or dentist immediately, as such pain/swelling can be an indication of infection. Rest assured that your unruly gums will return back to normal once your bundle of joy arrives!