Swollen gums when pregnant

Pregnancy-related hormone changes can make gums react more strongly to plaque, so gentle daily cleaning and dental care are important.

Pregnancy hormones can increase gingival inflammation around plaque and cause tenderness, puffiness, or bleeding. A painful lump, pus, fever, or severe swelling suggests another problem.

Brush with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth carefully. Tell the dental team about the pregnancy so examinations, imaging when needed, anesthetic, and treatment can be planned appropriately.

Arrange care for persistent bleeding, pain, decay, or localized enlargement; facial swelling, fever, swallowing difficulty, or breathing difficulty needs urgent help.

Ask what is causing the finding, which examination or imaging is needed, and which treatment addresses that cause. Ask how to protect the area and which warning signs require earlier review.