How Pregnancy Affects Your Gums And What You Can Do About It

Pregnancy and Your Gums: A Crucial Connection

When you’re expecting a baby, your body goes through incredible changes — but many women don’t realize that pregnancy can have a big impact on their oral health, too.

Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can make your gums more sensitive, inflamed, and prone to bleeding. This condition is called pregnancy gingivitis, and it affects nearly 60–70% of pregnant women to some degree.

Here’s what you need to know about keeping your smile healthy while you’re expecting.

Why Does Pregnancy Affect My Gums?

During pregnancy, levels of progesterone and estrogen rise significantly. These hormones:

• Increase blood flow to your gums, making them more tender and swollen.

• Change how your body reacts to plaque, increasing inflammation.

• Make it easier for bacteria to irritate gum tissue.

Even with good brushing and flossing, you might notice:

✅ Red, swollen gums

✅ Bleeding when brushing or flossing

✅ Increased plaque or tartar buildup

If left untreated, pregnancy gingivitis can progress to periodontitis a more serious infection that can damage the bone and supporting tissues around your teeth.

Why Healthy Gums Matter for Baby, Too

Studies have shown that severe gum disease during pregnancy may increase the risk of:

• Preterm birth

• Low birth weight

• Preeclampsia

Maintaining good oral health is part of caring for both yourself and your baby.

What You Can Do: Tips for Healthy Gums During Pregnancy

💡 Schedule a dental checkup early in your pregnancy. Let your dentist or periodontist know you’re pregnant — they can recommend the safest care plan.

💡 Brush and floss diligently. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily to keep plaque at bay.

💡 Eat a balanced diet.Limit sugary snacks and include plenty of vitamin C and calcium for healthy teeth and gums.

💡 Don’t skip professional cleanings. Regular cleanings are safe and recommended during pregnancy to reduce inflammation and remove hardened plaque.

💡 Call if symptoms worsen. If you experience severe gum pain, abscesses, or loose teeth, see your dentist or periodontist right away.

We’re Here to Help You Smile Through Pregnancy

At Braganza Periodontics, we specialize in keeping your gums healthy at every stage of life, including pregnancy. If you’re expecting, call us today to schedule a gentle, thorough evaluation and cleaning. Together, we can protect your smile and your baby’s health.

DR. ANNABEL BRAGANZA

Call Us Today: 

705-741-1885

1119 Clonsilla Avenue,

Peterborough, Ontario

K9J 5Y6, CANADA

administration@braganzaperiodontics.com