Pregnant and receding gums

[Boobiemama]

I noticed a week or so ago, there was a sore spot on my gums, on one tooth. I brushed carefully, flossed and rinsed my mouth with peroxide, then it quit hurting.
So I looked closer today and see the gum is actually receding. Its alot lower on that one tooth. So now I am freakin out.

I am 12 weeks pregnant, havent been to the dentist in a couple years, and have no insurance and cant really afford a dentist trip.

BUT I am scared my teeth will fall out. Is this something I need to run to the dentist for? or are there things I can do to see if it improves?

I am going to pick up a mouthwash today. What toothpaste and mouthwash would you recommend?
I read that whitening toothpaste can make it worse.

Also, I should add I am deathly afraid of the dentist, and my last dentist gave me valium to take before I come in so I am not so scared. But I dont think I should be taking that when pregnant.

[PGNPORTLAND]

me too

hi I am also pregnant, also terrified of the dentist (its been more than a few years for me) and also losing sleep wondering if my teeth might fall out. my gums got extremely swollen about a week ago and it got worse and worse. I also got canker sores on them I think from them rubbing against my teeth. yesterday I went to the pharmacist and she recommed this rinse called something like Glyceryl or Glyceryn (I wish I had the bottle with me so I could tell you exactly. It was about 7 dollars for a small bottle but you only use about 10 drops at a time. It has no alcohol so it won't burn your sensitive gums like listerine or something would and it really seemed to help me. I also put a wet washcloth in the freezer and gummed on it like a teething baby and that helped too. As for the dentist, yes, you should go and so should I - you first! hope this helps a little. that stuff really did help me and apparently it is very very good for your mouth, pregnant or not. good luck

[malamamama]

How do you brush? I had a receding gum which started decaying and my brushing method was a culprit. The key: small, tiny, gentle circular motions.
As for going to the dentist when pregnant....2nd trimester is the best! Avoid nitrous oxide as it is linked to miscarriage in the 1st trimester. Play it safe.
There are lots of great ideas for natural sedation in the archives to help you through it.
If whatever is happening turned to infection, that infection can be passed on to your babe in your womb. So best to check it out if you are questioning.....

[sandrajoon]

Try flossing with dental floss that has been coated with tea tree oil. Hold the end of floss between your thumb and index finger, drop on a drop of tea tree oil, and then pull the floss btween your finger and thunb to coat. Thsi really helps with gum health.

Gum infections can lead to preterm labour so do take care of your teeth. Cost of dental care is much less than the cost of a premature baby.

[Boobiemama]

Thank you guys!
I got some toms of maine mouthwash tonight, plus I found a dental clinic that charges based on sliding scale, so am calling tomorrow to get an appt.

I dont have any pain, so I dont think infection is an issue, but I do want to get it taken care of before it could be a bad problem. And I will for sure be checking out the natural sedation links, as i looked up valium in dr hales book, and its a no no for pregnancy. I am scared already.

[Boobiemama]

I have been brushing and flossing religiously, and my gums seem healthier, no bleeding. It is just this one tooth that I am concerned about.
I have an appt next monday. I am scared to death, hope its not worse than I imagine.

[applejuice]

Rutin, Vitamin C, and Bioflavinoids help keep the gums healthy...it is a stress vitamin and is needed in higher amounts during pregnancy...

[mavery]

I've had some probs with receding gums and my dentist told me to use an electric toothbrush to prevent myself from scrubbing too hard. Just another thing you might consider....