Tag Archives: swollen gums

Gum Disease

How to Treat Swollen and Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy

Why are my gums still puffy after delivering my baby in February 2025? Will I need to get a gum contour? Thanks. Melody from WY

Melody,

We understand your concerns. The following information can help you determine whether at-home care will be enough and when to see a dentist.

Why Are Gums Irritated During Pregnancy?

Expectant mothers often experience pregnancy gingivitis, a condition that heightens gum sensitivity to plaque. This inflammation often leads to tenderness and increased bleeding during your daily routine. Because your case involves substantial swelling, you should take extra care to manage the inflammation immediately.

What Can You Do at Home for Pregnancy Gingivitis?

Diligent oral hygiene usually resolves most cases of gum irritation. You can implement several simple changes to your daily routine to help soothe your gums and reduce swelling.

  • Focus on the gum line: Clean the area where the tooth meets the gum carefully with a soft-bristle brush.
  • Prioritize flossing: Ensure you reach the tight spaces between teeth every day.
  • Monitor peroxide use: Rinse with 3% hydrogen peroxide only occasionally, as daily use for over two weeks can lead to an oral yeast infection.

When Should You See a Dentist?

Consult your dentist if your hygiene routine does not improve gum swelling and irritation. Delay gum contouring or other surgical work until your gums are healthy. Addressing the source of the irritation prevents the swelling from returning after a dental procedure.

Plano, Texas, female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy sponsors this post.

Sedation Dentistry

How Can I Treat Gum Disease at Home?

Although I have not seen a dentist yet, I am sure that I have gum disease. All the signs point to gum disease. I have bleeding and swollen gums and two loose teeth where the gums shrank back a little. I do not have dental insurance right now but am looking for a job that offers it. I also have dental anxiety, so I know they need to give me nitrous or something to calm me down. I’m afraid of not having enough money to meet my home expenses if I must pay for it on my own. Meanwhile, is there anything that I can do at home to slow down the damage to my gums and teeth? Thank you.  Jan from Iowa

Jan,

The signs and symptoms you described reflect advanced gum disease. When your teeth begin to loosen, you can do nothing at home to save them. And if two teeth are loose, more will probably follow.

What Happens If You Don’t Treat Gum Disease?

Untreated gum disease can threaten your long-term oral and overall health. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, as gum disease gets worse, the following issues result:

  • Chronic inflammation
  • Diseased bone that supports your teeth
  • Deep pockets between your gums and teeth
  • Teeth fall out

Preventing gum disease is not expensive. But the longer you delay, the more costly treatment will become. Your dentist will recommend deep cleanings to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar between your teeth. You may need a specialist to stop the disease from getting worse?

What If You Have Gum Disease But No Dental Insurance?

Photo of female patient sitting and relaxing in a dental chair, for information on sedation dentistry from Plano female dentist, Dr. Miranda Lacy.
Ask a dentist about making gum disease treatment and sedation affordable for you

If you have gum disease but no dental insurance, see a dentist anyway. Even if you need sedation during the treatment you need, it is worth it. Call a few dental offices in your area and ask about payment plans and how the practice can make treatment affordable for you.

Plano Texas dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy sponsors this post.