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| |    Bleeding Gums: A Common Nuisance of Pregnancy by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D. reviewed by Kristi A. Zakariasen, D.D.S. Many expectant mothers notice that their gums bleed when they brush or floss their teeth. The culprit usually is gingivitis (from "gingiva," meaning gums, and "-itis," meaning inflammation). Food particles that get caught between the tooth and gum attract bacteria, which can lead to inflammation. This condition can plague anyone, but the hormones of pregnancy often aggravate it by causing tissues to swell and augmenting the supply of blood to the gums. Prevention and treatment The best way to keep gingivitis at bay is by brushing and flossing regularly. Foods with hard slivers, such as popcorn, have a particular tendency to stick between the tooth and gum and should be flossed out as soon as possible or, better yet, avoided. Contact your dentist if your gums continue to bleed several minutes after brushing. Medical conditions that can cause bleeding Occasionally, pregnant women experience a problem with blood clotting. If, in addition to bleeding gums, you bruise easily, have frequent or heavy nosebleeds, or experience bleeding in other parts of your body, let your practitioner know.
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