Is gingivitis common during pregnancy?

Yes, gingivitis is very common during pregnancy. Between 60% and 75% of pregnant women experience it. Since it is so common, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent it from progressing in to periodontal disease, a more serious type of gum disease.

When does pregnancy gingivitis start?

Pregnancy gingivitis is caused by an increase in hormones like progesterone and typically develops between the second and eighth months of pregnancy. It tends to be most pronounced during the third trimester.

How to get rid of pregnancy gingivitis?

You can manage and potentially eliminate pregnancy gingivitis by prioritising your oral health. This includes regular brushing and flossing. Warm saltwater rinses and gentle gum massage can also help soothe and reduce inflammation. And of course, schedule regular checkups for professional cleanings.

Does pregnancy gingivitis go away?

Yes, pregnancy gingivitis typically goes away (or resolves) after giving birth. Pregnancy gingivitis occurs due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the gums. After delivery, hormone levels return to normal, and the inflammation subsides. In most cases, pregnancy gingivitis will go away within a few months after giving birth. However, in some cases, it may persist or worsen if it is...

Pregnancy Gingivitis: Causes, Treatment, And Prevention

PREGNANCY

Pregnancy Gingivitis: Causes, Treatment, And Prevention

Last updated 06/25

This blog has been reviewed and approved by Dr Robert Lee, a dental professional of 35 years

Table Of Contents

Key Takeaways

Pregnancy gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy. 
It tends to be most pronounced during the second trimester. 
Common signs include swollen, red gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing. 
Daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits can help manage and prevent this condition. 
Left untreated, it can lead to periodontal disease, which may affect overall health. 
Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, regular dental checkups, and eating a healthy diet, are key steps in prevention.

Pregnant woman squeezing toothpaste onto her toothbrush in a bathroom

What Is Pregnancy Gingivitis?

Pregnancy gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that causes irritation, redness, and swelling of your gums. It’s directly linked to the large hormonal shifts that happen during pregnancy, especially the increase in progesterone. These changes make it easier for plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, to build up and trigger an irritated response in your gums.

This condition is most common during the second trimester, though some women may notice symptoms earlier or later. It's not dangerous by itself, but if left unaddressed, it can progress into more serious gum issues like periodontitis. So, it’s good to get ahead of it the minute you notice any issues.

Pregnant woman experiencing pain from gingivitis

What Causes It?

There are a few key factors behind the development of pregnancy gingivitis:

Hormonal Changes

During pregnancy, your body produces more progesterone. Among other things, this affects how your gums respond to plaque. It also increases blood flow to the gum tissue, making it more sensitive, swollen, and prone to bleeding.

Plaque Buildup

Plaque is the main culprit behind any form of gum disease. If it’s not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and causes inflammation.

Morning Sickness

Frequent vomiting from morning sickness can expose your teeth and gums to stomach acids, which irritate gum tissue and weaken your mouth’s defenses.

Changes in Eating Habits

Cravings or snacking more often, especially on sugary foods, can increase the risk of plaque and gum issues, especially if you're not cleaning your teeth regularly.

Neglecting Oral Care

Some expectant mothers may unintentionally skip brushing or flossing due to nausea, fatigue, or sensitivity. Unfortunately, this only increases the risk of getting gingivitis.

Why It Matters: Risks of Untreated Gingivitis

Mild pregnancy gingivitis may seem like a small problem, and it might be easy to ignore since you’ve got a lot going on. But that can lead to complications. If gum inflammation worsens, it can turn into periodontitis, a more serious gum infection that damages the tissue and bone supporting your teeth.

Some research, including studies cited by the American Dental Association, suggests that untreated gum disease during pregnancy may be linked to preterm birth and low birth weight. All the more reason to take it seriously as soon as you notice something.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Pregnancy gingivitis can range from barely noticeable to very uncomfortable. Common symptoms include red, swollen gums, tenderness in the gums, or bleeding when brushing or flossing. Persistent bad breath can be another indicator, or, in more advanced cases, a receding gum line.

Some women also experience “pregnancy tumors” or pyogenic granulomas. These are non-cancerous growths on the gums that usually disappear after birth. They can look alarming but are usually harmless and caused by the same hormonal changes.

If you notice symptoms or have symptoms that are getting worse, you shouldn’t wait until your next checkup. Call your dentist right away if:

Your gums bleed frequently or heavily
You see pus or develop a bad taste in your mouth
A lump forms on your gums
You feel pain when chewing
Your teeth feel loose or gum recession worsens

Treatment Options

Luckily, pregnancy gingivitis is very treatable. Here’s what you can do:

1. Improved At-Home Care

Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush to go easy on the gums and fluoride toothpaste. Floss gently once a day to remove plaque between your teeth. Use an antimicrobial mouthwash if your dentist or dental hygienist recommends it.

2. Professional Dental Cleaning

Nothing beats a deep cleaning by a dental hygienist to remove plaque and tartar buildup. This is safe during pregnancy and often provides quick, effective relief.

3. Saltwater Rinses

A warm saltwater rinse can help soothe irritated gums and reduce inflammation naturally. All it takes is ½ teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water.

4. Diet Adjustments

Cut back on sugary snacks and eat foods rich in vitamins C and A instead. Those types of foods support gum health and immune response.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and bacteria. It can also reduce dry mouth, which may worsen gum problems.

6. Manage Morning Sickness

If you’re vomiting regularly, rinse your mouth afterward to neutralize your stomach acid before brushing. You can rinse with water or a baking soda solution.

Pregnant women getting a treatment in a dentist’s office

Prevention Tips During Pregnancy

Preventing pregnancy gingivitis isn’t complicated, but it does take some awareness, effort, and consistency. Here are some simple, straightforward steps to stay ahead of it.

✔ Schedule a dental checkup early in pregnancy and again mid-pregnancy if needed.

✔ Let your dentist or dental hygienist know you’re expecting—they’ll adjust your care accordingly.

✔ Brush twice a day, for at least two minutes, and floss daily.

✔ Use a soft toothbrush to avoid irritating sensitive gums.

✔ Stay on top of your prenatal vitamins, especially those with folate and vitamin C.

✔ Resist sugary foods and drinks as much as you can, and rinse after meals when you can’t brush.

✔ If flossing is uncomfortable, instead of avoiding it, try a water flosser or softer floss options.

What Happens After Birth?

For most people, pregnancy gingivitis improves after delivery as hormone levels return to normal. That said, you shouldn’t assume it will go away on its own; postpartum dental care is just as important. If symptoms persist, a follow-up dental exam can help rule out other gum issues and keep your oral health comeback on track.

Summary

Pregnancy gingivitis is a common and manageable condition that affects many expecting moms due to hormonal changes, increased blood flow, and plaque buildup. It typically shows up during the second trimester and causes red, swollen, or bleeding gums. While it might seem minor, ignoring it can lead to more serious gum problems or even affect pregnancy outcomes.

Fortunately, good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and healthy eating habits can go a long way in preventing and treating it. Brushing twice a day with a soft toothbrush, gentle flossing every day, as well as saltwater rinses, can soothe irritation and keep pregnancy gingivitis at bay.

Of course, if symptoms worsen or don't go away after giving birth, consult your dentist. With a little care and attention, you can keep your mouth healthy through every stage of pregnancy.

Good Oral Hygiene Starts with Oral-B

Healthy gums are crucial to maintaining a healthy mouth. For healthy gums, the first line of defense is to see a dental professional. They can do a proper examination and provide advice. But there are things you can do to help.

When you brush with Oral-B iO electric toothbrushes, you can protect your gums and help prevent future gum recession. Oral-B iO helps maintain gum health better than a manual toothbrush.
The right toothbrush head, such as the Oral-B Ultimate Clean brush head, helps remove plaque and has different bristle lengths that reach deep into the spaces between your teeth, where plaque love to hide.

Good oral hygiene is a vital component of overall health. Oral-B strives to provide high-quality tools that make your daily routine easier and more effective. Our products are engineered to target plaque and help you sustain clean teeth and healthy gums, supporting the foundation of a healthy mouth.

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FAQs

Yes, gingivitis is very common during pregnancy. Between 60% and 75% of pregnant women experience it. Since it is so common, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent it from progressing into periodontal disease, a more serious type of gum disease. 
Pregnancy gingivitis is caused by an increase in hormones like progesterone and typically develops between the second and eighth months of pregnancy. It tends to be most pronounced during the third trimester.  
You can manage and potentially eliminate pregnancy gingivitis by prioritising your oral health. This includes regular brushing and flossing. Warm saltwater rinses and gentle gum massage can also help soothe and reduce inflammation. And of course, schedule regular checkups for professional cleanings.  
Yes, pregnancy gingivitis typically goes away (or resolves) after giving birth. Pregnancy gingivitis occurs due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the gums. After delivery, hormone levels return to normal, and the inflammation subsides. In most cases, pregnancy gingivitis will go away within a few months after giving birth. However, in some cases, it may persist or worsen if it is not treated properly. So, if you experience symptoms such as swollen, red, or bleeding gums, it is important to see a dentist or dental hygienist for evaluation and treatment.

Sources

Chen, C. K., et al. (2017). Association between chronic periodontitis and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease: A retrospective, population-based, matched-cohort study. Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy, 9, 56. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13195-017-0282-6
Geurs, N. C., et al. (2023). A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial of Prenatal Oral Hygiene Education in Pregnancy-Associated Gingivitis. Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health, 68(4), 507–516. https://doi.org/10.1111/jmwh.13486
Grossi, S. G., et al. (1998). Periodontal disease and diabetes mellitus: A two-way relationship. Annals of Periodontology, 3, 51-61. https://doi.org/10.1902/annals.1998.3.1.51
Janket, S. J., et al. (2003). Meta-analysis of periodontal disease and risk for coronary heart disease and stroke. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontology, 95, 559-569. https://doi.org/10.1067/moe.2003.107
Parry, S., et al. (2023). Evaluation of an advanced oral hygiene regimen on maternity outcomes in a randomized multicenter clinical trial (Oral Hygiene and Maternity Outcomes Multicenter Study). American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology MFM, 5(8), 100995. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajogmf.2023.100995
Sutor, S., et al. (2025). Effect of a powered and a manual toothbrush in subjects susceptible to gingival recession: A 36-month randomized controlled clinical study. International Journal of Dental Hygiene, 23(1), 26–36. https://doi.org/10.1111/idh.12834
https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/hcp/conversation-tips/talking-to-pregnant-women-about-oral-health.html
https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/pregnancy
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22717-pyogenic-granuloma
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22484-pregnancy-gingivitis
Sutor S, Graetz C, Geiken A, et al. Effect of a powered and a manual toothbrush in subjects susceptible to gingival recession: A 36-month randomized controlled clinical study. Int J Dent Hyg. Published online June 11, 2024. doi:10.1111/idh.12834 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/idh.12834
Chen CK et al. Association between chronic periodontitis and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease: A retrospective, population-based, matched-cohort study. Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy 2017; 9:56.
Grossi SG et al. Periodontal disease and diabetes mellitus: A two-way relationship. Ann Periodontol 1998;3:51-61.
Janket SJ et al. Meta- analysis of periodontal disease and risk for coronary heart disease and stroke. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2003; 95:559-569.

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