BLEEDING GUMS DURING SECOND TRIMESTER
Swollen and sore gums, which may bleed, during pregnancy are seen in some pregnant women.
This is also called pregnancy gingivitis or gum disease.
Mainly caused by build-up of plaque on the teeth.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your gums more susceptable to plaque, leading to inflammation and bleeding.
Keeping teeth and gums healthy in pregnancy
The best way to prevent or deal with gum problems is to practise good oral hygiene.
Care of your teeth and gums:
- Clean your teeth carefully twice a day for 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste using a good brushing method to remove plaque.
- Floss once a day to remove small bits of food from between your teeth, which will help to prevent the build-up of plaque.
- Use a soft bristled brush to avoid harshness over the gums.
- Avoid having sugary drinks (such as fizzy drinks or sweet tea) and sugary foods too often.
- If you’re hungry between meals, have foods such as vegetables, fresh fruit or plain yoghurt, and avoid sugary or acidic foods.
- Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
- Stop smoking, as it can make gum disease worse.
- Salt rinse daily(1 teaspoon of salt added to a cup of warm water) can help reduce gum inflammation.
- If you have morning sickness (nausea and vomiting), rinse your mouth with plain water after each time you are sick. This prevents the acid in your vomit from damaging your teeth.
- Do not brush your teeth straight away as they will be softened by the acid from your stomach. Wait about an hour before brushing.
Dental treatments to be avoided in pregnancy.
When you go to the dentist, make sure they know you’re pregnant.
Discuss with your dentist whether treatments can be delayed until after your baby is born.
If a dental X-ray is needed, your dentist will usually wait until you delivered your baby, even though most dental X-rays do not affect the abdomen or pelvic area.
