Gums swollen?

avaquinn · August 2014

I am 17 weeks and my gums have been swollen so weeks. I read this is normal. I am just concerned because they bleed quite a lot and have these swollen random spots. It's getting annoying and I just lost my dental. So I'm concerned. Was curious if anyone else is having swollen gum issues.

Beckyboo71 · August 2014

I haven't this time around, but I did when I was pregnant with DD. Every time I brushed my teeth, my gums would bleed and yes, they were very swollen.

packiecooper · August 2014

Ramp up the flossing and get a professional cleaning at the dentist. That will help a lot.

Beauxbaton · August 2014

My gums are super sensitive this time around and swollen in spots. I brush my teeth and floss every night and morning. @ExcitedMama2‌ any suggestions on mouth wash?

tripletoe · August 2014

I'm a hygienist and while swollen, bleeding gums are more likely to happen during pregnancy it is not "normal". Up your flossing and I'd recommend an electric toothbrush, they are more efficient then a manual toothbrush. Like previous posters have recommended, listerine can really help in cases of gingivitis. If your gums are bleeding it's an active infection and you have gingivitis. It sounds like you need a professional cleaning, if you have tartar under your gums it can cause them to be inflamed and bleed. I know you said you are off your dental plan, but getting an appointment where they just scale your teeth can be affordable (not doing check up, xrays, polish, fluoride etc). Maybe call your dental office for a quote!

avaquinn · August 2014

Thanks so much ladies! This was very helpful

GromMom · August 2014

Yes, last night I got out a box of good floss (was using up crappy floss that was given as a stocking stuffer from the in laws). The floss was so smooth that it went right into my gum, which proceededtobleed profusely, I had to swish with h2o2 to get it to stop.

SandraRDH · August 2014

Also a hygienist, and I agree with what @tripletoe recommended. As for mouthwash, you may want to try something more neutral / less harsh if things are swollen and sensitive. There is a great brand called CloSys that is a chlorine dioxide rinse, very neutral, light mint flavor and works great against bacteria. I would also go with a softer floss (won't cut your gums when flossing which can happen when things are inflamed and make the situation worse), I think Glide floss is the worst offender of this because it is flat so it has two 'sharp' edges to it that can cut into swollen gums. Maybe go with a regular waxed floss? Personally I like a 'Gum Care' floss by Johnson & Johnson, it's a 'woven' (soft) floss that's great for tender gums but doesn't work well if you have very tight contacts. Yes, get a professional cleaning, it will be well worth what you pay... and of course, daily flossing will make the biggest difference! Happy Flossing