Bleeding gums during pregnancy

Pregnancy is considered a rather delicate state and the body is under specific stress. There are many changes and women tend to get frightened even in case of minor disturbances such as bleeding gums. Bleeding gums is a condition that can normally affect all people and if it occurs during pregnancy it is generally caused by several well determined causes.

Bleeding gums is actually a common complaint of pregnant women. The women report that the bleeding occurs during flossing or brushing teeth. The bleeding stops spontaneously and may reoccur once a woman repeats the previously mentioned activities.

Causes of Bleeding Gums during Pregnancy

The most common cause of bleeding gums during pregnancy is gingivitis, inflammation of the gums. The inflammation is induced by higher levels of progesterone which makes the gums more susceptible and sensitive to bacteria in plaque. The blood supply of the gums is increased and this also makes the gums more susceptible to bleeding once the infection has occurred.

Another cause of bleeding gums during pregnancy is a pyogenic granuloma. This benign growth typically affects oral cavity and is basically caused by irritation, physical trauma or hormonal changes. The pregnancy features with intensive hormonal changes and they may eventually lead to formation of this benign tumor. The tumor easily bleeds when the teeth are brushed or flossed. It is harmless and painless and pregnant women should not worry if it occurs. Apart from affecting the oral cavity this tumor may also develop inside the nasal cavity and on the skin. During pregnancy the tumor commonly grows up to 3/4 inches (or even more) and usually develops in the area which has already been affected by gingivitis. The tumor may withdraw spontaneously once the baby is born. If this does not happen it needs to be surgically removed. Only if the tumor causes prolonged discomfort especially during chewing, brushing and flossing or in case of profuse bleeding it is removed during pregnancy.

Prevention of Bleeding Gums during Pregnancy

Each and every pregnant woman must practice good oral hygiene and have regular preventive dental care. The teeth are supposed to be brushed thoroughly after every meal with a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste with fluoride. A woman must also floss daily. Preventive dental care is essential. The dentist removes plaque and tartar which are considered excellent source of bacteria and potential gingivitis. Pregnant women may require more frequent dental check-ups. If the bleeding occurs a woman should not neglect it and is supposed to consult a dentist as soon as possible. And finally, a woman must report her pregnancy since some of the medications are highly forbidden during pregnancy and the dentist must be fully informed about all the allergies. This way none of the harmful medications will be administered to a patient.