If you’ve noticed your gums bleeding when brushing or flossing during pregnancy, you’re not alone. Many expectant mums experience gum problems, particularly from the second trimester onwards. While a small amount of bleeding may seem harmless, it’s often a sign of pregnancy-related gum inflammation, known as pregnancy gingivitis, and it’s important not to ignore it.
At Pure Periodontics in the City in London, Dr Neesha Patel supports many women through pregnancy-related oral health changes safely and effectively. Understanding why your gums bleed during pregnancy and how to protect them is key to maintaining both your oral health and your baby’s wellbeing.
Why Do Gums Bleed More During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy causes significant hormonal changes, particularly increases in progesterone and oestrogen. These hormones increase blood flow to the gums, making them more sensitive, swollen, and prone to bleeding.
Hormonal changes can also cause an exaggerated immune response to bacterial plaque, the sticky film that naturally forms on teeth every day. Even if your oral hygiene routine hasn’t changed, plaque may build up more easily, leading to tender, inflamed gums that bleed when brushing or flossing.
This condition, pregnancy gingivitis, often begins as early as the second month of pregnancy and commonly improves towards the ninth month. However, the bleeding itself is caused by plaque bacteria, not hormones alone. Without professional advice and good plaque control, pregnancy gingivitis can worsen and progress into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that affects the bone supporting the teeth.
The Link Between Gum Health and Pregnancy Outcomes
Good gum health isn’t just about your smile. It can play an important role in pregnancy outcomes. Research has found links between untreated periodontitis and three possible pregnancy complications.
These include having a baby with a low birth weight, giving birth too early in the pregnancy, and developing dangerously high blood pressure during pregnancy, known as pre-eclampsia.
When periodontitis is present, the mouth can become a significant source of bacteria. Scientists have shown that these bacteria can enter the bloodstream, known as bacteraemia, during everyday activities such as chewing, brushing, and flossing. These bacteria may then travel elsewhere in the body and, in some cases, reach the developing baby.
Traces of oral bacteria from the mother have been found in the fluid surrounding the baby and in the blood within the umbilical cord. The risk of bacteraemia is higher in patients with periodontitis than in those with healthy gums.
While more research is needed to prove a direct cause and effect relationship, inflammation anywhere in the body is known to be harmful. Other factors such as smoking, lifestyle choices, and certain medical conditions can also affect pregnancy outcomes. Importantly, having periodontitis does not automatically mean there will be complications, but maintaining a healthy mouth helps reduce these risks.
Pregnancy Epulis: A Lesser-Known Gum Change
Some women may develop a pregnancy epulis, also known as a pyogenic granuloma. This is a benign, painless lump on the gum that may bleed easily when brushing. It usually appears in areas where gingivitis is already present.
A pregnancy epulis is not harmful and often resolves on its own after the baby is born. Treatment usually focuses on keeping the area clean and reducing plaque. However, if the lump becomes uncomfortable, interferes with eating or brushing, or bleeds excessively, it can be safely removed during pregnancy by a specialist.
What You Can Do at Home
If your gums are bleeding during pregnancy, small but consistent daily habits can make a big difference.
Brush carefully twice a day for two minutes using a fluoridated toothpaste. Clean between your teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes. After brushing, spit but do not rinse in order to maintain fluoride levels on the teeth. Use an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash at a different time to brushing.
Follow your doctor’s advice on a balanced, nutritious diet. Your baby’s teeth begin developing between the third and sixth months of pregnancy, so adequate vitamins A, C and D, protein, calcium, and phosphorus are important. Limit sugary foods and frequent snacking, choosing low-sugar options such as cheese or raw vegetables instead.
If you experience morning sickness, rinse your mouth with plain water and wait at least one hour before brushing. This allows tooth enamel to re-harden after exposure to stomach acid.
If you notice any changes in your gums, teeth, or mouth, it’s important to book an appointment with a dental professional promptly.
When to See a Gum Specialist
If your gums bleed regularly, feel sore, or appear swollen and red, it’s important to seek professional advice. A dentist or hygienist can screen for early signs of periodontitis and refer you to a specialist periodontist if needed.
At Pure Periodontics, Dr Neesha Patel provides gentle, tailored pregnancy gum care in London. Treatment may include professional cleaning to remove plaque and bacteria, alongside personalised advice to help you maintain gum health throughout your pregnancy.
Research shows that treating periodontal disease during pregnancy can reduce the risk of adverse outcomes. One study found the incidence of preterm birth was 2 percent in women who received periodontal treatment during pregnancy, compared with 10 percent in those who delayed treatment until after delivery.
Is Dental Treatment Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes, dental and periodontal treatment during pregnancy is safe and strongly encouraged. Preventative care, professional cleaning, and non-surgical periodontal treatment can all be carried out safely.
There is no evidence that dental X-rays cause harm to your baby, although some women choose to delay them if they feel more comfortable. Local anaesthetic can also be safely administered during pregnancy. Always let your dental team know that you’re pregnant, when your baby is due, and whether you’ve experienced any pregnancy complications.
At Pure Periodontics, every treatment plan is carefully adapted to your stage of pregnancy to ensure comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
After Your Baby Arrives
Following birth, hormone levels gradually return to normal and gum inflammation often settles. However, if you experienced gingivitis or periodontitis during pregnancy, ongoing periodontal maintenance is essential to prevent recurrence.
Postpartum gum care supports your recovery, overall health, and long-term oral wellbeing, something many new mums appreciate as they adjust to life with a new baby.
Specialist Gum Care for Expectant Mums in London
At Pure Periodontics, we understand the unique oral health needs of pregnant patients. Under the expert care of Dr Neesha Patel, you’ll receive gentle, personalised treatment designed to protect your gums, your overall health, and your baby’s wellbeing.
Conveniently located in the City of London, our clinic offers a calm, supportive environment where expectant mums can feel confident about their oral health at every stage of pregnancy.
The Bottom Line
Bleeding gums during pregnancy are common, but they’re not something to ignore. Hormonal changes increase sensitivity, but plaque bacteria are the underlying cause. With the right care, gum disease can be prevented or effectively managed.
If you’re expecting and have noticed bleeding, swollen, or sore gums, book a consultation at Pure Periodontics in Liverpool Street. With expert guidance from Dr Neesha Patel, you can protect your smile, support a healthy pregnancy, and give your baby the best possible start.