Causes of Swollen Gums During Pregnancy and How to Prevent it

During pregnancy, there are changes in body conditions that often interfere with comfort. One of them is the problem of swollen gums during pregnancy or inflammation of the gums during pregnancy. What causes this condition and how to prevent it? In general, swollen gums during pregnancy is a normal condition that is often experienced. This condition is usually caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy, thereby increasing blood flow to the gum tissue which makes it more susceptible to bacterial infections attached to plaque (tartar). In addition, there are other factors that can trigger swollen gums during pregnancy, such as smoking and diseases such as diabetes. Usually, women who before pregnancy have mild inflammation of the gums must be more careful, because during pregnancy, swollen gums can become more severe.

Symptoms of Swollen Gums During Pregnancy

Swelling of the gums (gingivitis) usually appears and will get worse when the pregnancy enters the second trimester and will continue until the third trimester. However, this condition will disappear after you give birth. Pregnancy gingivitis has varied symptoms and is easy to recognize, including:

• Gums bleed easily, especially when brushing teeth.
• The gums swell with a bright red color.
• Teeth become more sensitive.
• Pain when chewing.
• Teeth become loose which causes them to easily fall out.
• Bad breath.

If pregnancy gingivitis is not treated immediately it can cause serious gum inflammation called periodontitis. Periodontitis is an advanced gum inflammation that can spread to the bones around the teeth and gums. In some cases, severe gum inflammation during pregnancy increases the risk of giving birth prematurely and low birth weight of the baby. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to always maintain oral health to avoid various conditions that can affect the fetus in the womb.

How to Prevent Swollen Gums When Pregnant

Maintaining oral health during pregnancy is very important, this needs to be done to avoid various oral complaints that may occur. Here are some things you can do to prevent gum swelling during pregnancy:

• Be diligent at brushing your teeth at least twice a day, especially after eating. Use a soft toothbrush and choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
• Use dental floss or dental floss at least once a day.
• Reduce or avoid consuming sweet foods and drinks during pregnancy.
• Inadequate your nutritional intake by increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables.
• Avoid gargling using mouthwash that contains alcohol.
• Stop smoking, because it can worsen the swelling of the gums.
• Gargling using salt water helps accelerate the healing of swollen gums during pregnancy.
• Visit your dentist regularly, at least twice a year, for checking and cleaning plaque (tartar).
• Routine gargling with a mixture of baking soda and water after you vomit. This is done to eliminate bacteria and acids that come out with vomiting.
• Pregnant women are not recommended to consume alcohol during pregnancy.

If the various tips above are not able to prevent swelling of the gums during pregnancy, it is recommended that you see your dentist immediately. The doctor will conduct an examination and provide further treatment to treat swollen gums during pregnancy. In addition to consulting a dentist, don't forget to check with your obstetrician according to schedule, to undergo a routine pregnancy check-up.