The surge in production of the female
hormones estrogen and progesterone that occurs during puberty
can increase the blood flow
to the
gums and
change the way gum tissue reacts
to irritants in plaque, causing the gum tissue
to become red, tender, swollen, and more likely
to bleed during brushing and flossing.
The monthly menstruation cycle: Due to
the hormonal changes (particularly
the increase in progesterone) that occur during
the menstrual cycle, some women experience oral changes that
can include bright red swollen
gums, swollen salivary glands, development
of canker sores, or
bleeding gums.
