Hormonal changes during pregnancy increases the risk of gum issues like inflammation and bleeding. Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, can help reduce this risk.
Key messages for professionals to share:
- discuss why it's important to see a dentist before conception to ensure good gum health and to treat any issues
- advice to maintain oral hygiene: brush twice daily for 2 minutes using fluoride toothpaste (1,000 to 1,500 ppm), floss daily, and reduce sugary foods and drink
- encourage regular dental check-ups before and during pregnancy
- advise pregnant people to avoid brushing teeth immediately after vomiting (due to morning sickness); wait at least 1 hour to prevent damage from stomach acid
- signpost to free NHS dental care: pregnant women and those who have given birth in the last 12 months are entitled to free NHS dental treatment
Resources
Find an NHS dentist.
Some women get swollen and sore gums, which may bleed, during pregnancy. Bleeding gums are caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth. Find out more about bleeding gums in pregnancy.