Can hormonal changes cause gums to swell?

Gingivitis (gingiva: gums,-itis: inflammation) is a form of periodontal disease in which the gums around the teeth become inflamed and swollen. Gingivitis is commonly due to plaque (sticky bacteria and food) and tartar (hardened plaque) on the teeth. The bacteria and toxins they produce cause the gums to become infected, swollen, tender, and bleed.(Pubmed Health)

While gingivitis is commonly associated with poor-oral hygiene, hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, contraceptive use, or menopause can cause severe and rapid gingival swelling even in the absence of plaque and tartar. Specifically, increased levels of the hormone progesterone make it easier for certain gingivitis-causing bacteria to grow. Such a condition is often referred to as hormonal gingivitis or pregnancy gingivitis. As a result of varying hormone levels, between 50-70% of women will develop gingivitis sometime during their pregnancy.

I hope this has provided some useful information on gingivitis. Please feel free to respond with any questions or comments.

Sincerely,

Neal D. Kravitz,
South Riding, Virginia
www.kravitzorthodontics.com