Your gums bleed when you brush, feel puffy, or are more sensitive than usual. Pregnancy gingivitis affects up to 70% of pregnant women. It is caused by the same hormones (primarily progesterone) that drive most pregnancy symptoms, making your gums more reactive to the bacteria in plaque.
Why Hormones Affect Your Gums
Progesterone increases blood flow to the gums and makes them more sensitive to dental plaque. Even perfect oral hygiene may not fully prevent it. Increased vomiting (from morning sickness) also exposes teeth to stomach acid. Cravings for sweet or acidic foods increase cavity risk further.
| Risk Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Progesterone surge | Gums swell and bleed more easily |
| Morning sickness vomiting | Acid erodes tooth enamel |
| Food cravings | More sugar = more cavity bacteria |
| Fatigue | Less thorough brushing |
| Nausea from toothpaste | Skipping brushing altogether |
How to Protect Your Teeth
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush - gentle is more consistent than aggressive
- Floss daily - this removes plaque between teeth that causes gum inflammation
- Use a fluoride toothpaste and a fluoride mouthwash
- After vomiting, rinse with water or a baking soda solution - do not brush immediately (the enamel is soft)
- See a dentist at least once during pregnancy for a scale and clean - this is safe at any stage
- Eat calcium-rich foods to protect tooth structure
Why it matters for your baby
Severe untreated gum disease (periodontitis) in pregnancy has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight. Keeping your gums healthy is not just about your teeth.
After Birth
Pregnancy gingivitis almost always resolves after delivery as hormone levels return to normal. If symptoms persist for more than 3 months postpartum, see your dentist as there may be an underlying gum disease that needs treatment.