The combined effect of increased blood supply and pregnancy hormones can make your gums very soft and spongy. They may bleed when you brush your teeth, or eat something hard like an apple. Pieces of food may get trapped in your gums at the base of your teeth, and this may cause infection. Severe gum infection may cause problems with your pregnancy as the germs travel around your body.

Gum problems can occur throughout pregnancy, but your gums should get back to normal soon after your baby’s birth.

What can I do about them?

• Brush your teeth with a soft brush and gently use dental floss at least twice a day (after every meal if you can), paying particular attention to the area where your teeth meet your gums

• See your dentist regularly and make sure that he knows that you are pregnant. Having your teeth properly cleaned by a dental hygienist may be useful, and will give you opportunity to discuss the most effective way to clean your teeth. In the UK, dental care is free while you are pregnant and for a year after your baby is born.

Where to next

• Read babyworld's article about teeth in pregnancy
• Pregnancy: the physical experience