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Smoking irritates the gums — not like hot food that causes an immediate blister, but slowly, day after day. In response, the gums form a tougher protective layer, like a callus on your hands or feet. Underneath that layer, the inflammation continues — but it's harder to see: the gums bleed less and look healthier than they really are. When you stop smoking, it may seem as though your gums are getting worse, but underneath they are actually recovering.

During pregnancy, hormones make tissues throughout the body more relaxed — your body needs this to prepare for childbirth. The gums notice this most: they swell more easily and bleed more readily. At the same time, saliva changes and provides less protection. After the nausea phase, many pregnant women experience intense food cravings — eating more often and preferring sweet foods. More sugar means more plaque, and more plaque means more gum problems. Together, these factors mean that nearly seven in ten pregnant women experience gum problems. Good oral hygiene is especially important at this time.