What should I do about swollen and painful gums during pregnancy?
Dec 02, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, swollen and painful gums during pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes, poor oral hygiene, vitamin C deficiency, gingivitis, periodontitis, or other factors. These conditions can typically be treated through general care, medication, surgical treatment, or other approaches. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance.
Generally, gum swelling and pain during pregnancy may be caused by changes in progesterone levels, poor oral hygiene, vitamin C deficiency, gingivitis, periodontitis, and other factors. These conditions can usually be treated through general treatment, medication, surgical treatment, and other approaches. If experiencing any discomfort, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. A detailed explanation is as follows:
1. Hormonal changes: After pregnancy, the significant increase in progesterone levels in the body may cause gum blood vessels to dilate and increase vascular permeability, making the gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation and swelling. It is recommended to maintain good oral hygiene daily and use mouthwash to clean the mouth, reducing the accumulation of food debris and bacterial growth.
2. Poor oral hygiene: During pregnancy, changes in eating habits, such as increased meal frequency, combined with inadequate oral hygiene, can lead to the accumulation of food debris in the mouth, promoting bacterial growth and causing oral diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis, which result in swollen and painful gums. It is advised to enhance oral hygiene by brushing teeth regularly and using dental floss to clean between teeth.
3. Vitamin C deficiency: During pregnancy, the demand for vitamins increases, and insufficient intake may lead to gum health problems. It is recommended to visit a dentist promptly for deep cleaning and root planing procedures to remove dental plaque and tartar.
4. Gingivitis: Hormonal changes make the gums more susceptible to inflammation. Bacteria accumulating along the gumline can form dental plaque, potentially intensifying the gums' response to oral bacteria and leading to gingivitis. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as minocycline hydrochloride capsules, metronidazole tablets, or tinidazole capsules for treatment.
5. Periodontitis: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by dental plaque. Hormonal changes during pregnancy may exacerbate the inflammatory response, causing gum swelling, bleeding, and pain. It is recommended to use medications such as compound chlorhexidine mouthwash, amoxicillin granules, or cefaclor dispersible tablets under medical supervision for treatment.
Pregnant women must consult a doctor before taking any medication to ensure its safety for both mother and fetus. Additionally, regular dental checkups during pregnancy are recommended to promptly identify and address oral issues, maintaining good oral health.
