Swollen gums during pregnancy is a common complaint experienced by pregnant women. This condition certainly causes discomfort and sometimes even triggers a loss of appetite. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to know the causes of swollen gums and how to prevent them.
Swollen gums during pregnancy are normal. This condition is usually caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy. These hormonal changes trigger an increase in blood flow to the gum tissue which makes it more susceptible to bacterial infections and the appearance of plaque (tartar).
In addition, several other factors, such as smoking and diabetes, can also trigger swollen gums during pregnancy. Usually, women who before pregnancy had mild inflammation of the gums, should be more careful because the condition of swollen gums can get worse during pregnancy.
Symptoms of swollen gums during pregnancy
Swollen gums (gingivitis) usually appear during the second trimester of pregnancy and will continue until the third trimester. However, this condition will go away on its own after giving birth. Pregnancy gingivitis has a variety of symptoms and is quite easy to recognize, namely:
- Gums bleed easily, especially when brushing teeth
- Swollen gums with a bright red color
- Teeth are more sensitive
- Teeth hurt when chewing
- Teeth become loose so they fall out easily
- Bad breath
Untreated pregnancy gingivitis can lead to serious inflammation of the gums called periodontitis. Periodontitis is inflammation of the gums that can spread to the bones around the teeth and gums.
In some cases, periodontitis during pregnancy can increase the risk of premature delivery and low birth weight in the baby. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to always maintain oral health to avoid various conditions that can have a negative impact on the fetus.
How to prevent swollen gums during pregnancy
Maintaining oral health during pregnancy is very important to avoid various oral disorders that may occur. Here are some things you can do to prevent swelling of the gums during pregnancy:
- Brush your teeth regularly at least 2 times a day, especially after eating, with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste containing
- Use dental floss (dental floss) at least once a day.
- Reduce or avoid consumption of sugary foods and drinks during pregnancy.
- Adequate nutritional intake by increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables.
- Avoid gargling using mouthwash that contains alcohol.
- Quit smoking, because it can worsen the swelling of the gums.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
- When experiencing morning sickness, always gargle with water after vomiting to get rid of bacteria and acids that can damage teeth.
- Visit the dentist regularly at least once every 6 months for examination and cleaning of plaque (tartar).
If some of the tips above are not able to prevent swelling of the gums during pregnancy, immediately consult a dentist. The doctor will perform further examination and treatment to treat swollen gums during pregnancy.
In addition, don't forget to undergo regular pregnancy check-ups to the obstetrician to ensure the health condition of you and your fetus.