Women frequently face unbearable tooth pain while pregnant and sometimes they don’t know it is one of the common side effects the upcoming mothers face during pregnancy.
Sometimes the situation can worsen and lead you to a dentist. But is it fair to face a dentist while pregnant or are there any natural home remedies for toothaches or how can you prevent tooth pain while pregnant?
Well, today’s article will give you all the answers related to unbearable tooth pain while pregnant and all the preventions and remedies of toothaches.
Is it normal to get toothaches during pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a wonderful period in one’s life. You’re going through a lot of changes that are assisting you in becoming a new person. However, as lovely as pregnancy is, it comes with a slew of unpleasant side effects, including swollen feet, morning sickness, and very frequent but underappreciated symptoms.
For the sake of your health and the kid, it is important to maintain good health throughout the nine months, especially the mouth cavity. During this time, many women avoid getting dental work done. Because therapies are regarded to be dangerous when pregnant, they would rather tolerate toothache. But why? Let’s dive into the article to get all your answers.
Related: 23 Benefits of Vagainal Steaming while pregnant.
Can I have dental work done when pregnant?
Treatment for your teeth can be done at any moment while you’re pregnant. Elective dental care is best performed during pregnancy in the second trimester, weeks 14 through 20. Remember that if you have a tooth infection or swelling, you may need to get care right once. The dangers of not treating an infection during pregnancy exceed any potential hazards associated with the drugs used during dental treatment.
In addition, the US Food and Drug Administration recommends that non-mercury fillings be used in pregnant or expecting to become pregnant women wherever feasible. This is owing to concerns about mercury’s potentially negative health consequences.
Existing mercury-containing fillings that are in good condition should not be removed or replaced unless medically necessary. The removal process may result in a brief increase in mercury vapor exposure. Consult your healthcare specialist if you have any questions or concerns about dental care during pregnancy.
3 Common causes of teeth pain during pregnancy
Hormone levels rise while your baby develops in the pregnancy, which can cause unbearable tooth pain and other serious dental symptoms. Some common causes of having dental issues while pregnancy are
1. laque accumulation
Due to hormonal changes, your body’s natural reaction to battling plaque varies throughout pregnancy. Plaques can build up over time, hardening into tartar and increasing your risk of dental disease if left untreated.
2. Morning sickness
During the first trimester of pregnancy, most women experience nausea and vomiting. As a result, brushing with an acid-neutralizing toothpaste is critical for properly and safely removing stomach acids that might cause tooth erosion. Otherwise, your enamel begins to deteriorate, allowing for more tooth discomfort due to sensitivity and cavities when pregnant.
3. Gum disease
Most women are more susceptible to getting gingivitis during pregnancy as a result of hormonal changes, leaving gums painful, sensitive, and open to more serious difficulties down the line.
4 Relationships between tooth pain and pregnancy
A woman’s tooth pain often becomes intolerable while she is pregnant. There are certain relations that fill the bond between unbearable tooth pain with pregnancy. These are
1. Morning sickness
It Is one of the most prevalent symptoms experienced by most women. Sensitivity or cavities develop as a result of the continual contact of stomach acidic content with the tooth, leading to tooth discomfort.
2. Dietary changes during pregnancy
Forcing pregnant women to consume more fats and dairy in the name of a healthy baby increases the risk of dental disorders, which can lead to excruciating tooth pain later on.
3. Calcium intake
It is required for proper development in a growing infant. If the body doesn’t get enough, it begins to remove it from places where it already exists, such as your teeth, causing a toothache.
4. Gums
Your gums shift during pregnancy, making them more sensitive; bleeding during brushing or flossing might happen, causing unbearable tooth pain while pregnant.
3 Common Oral Problems During Pregnancy
1. Pregnancy Thrush
Thrush infections are caused by an excess of yeast on the tongue and along the inside of the cheeks. Several milky white spots in the mouth are the most visible indication of a thrush infection. Because the inflow of estrogen during pregnancy produces an ideal growing environment for yeast, pregnant women are twice as likely to get thrush than non-pregnant women.
2. Swollen Gums
Hormone fluctuations during pregnancy might result in inflamed gums and possibly gingivitis. These hormonal changes can increase blood flow to sensitive regions of the mouth, such as the gums, causing visible and painful swelling associated with gum disease and periodontal disease.
3. Tooth Pain & Wisdom tooth pain while Pregnant
Teeth sensitivity and discomfort are common complaints among pregnant women, particularly in the wisdom tooth in the rear of the mouth. During pregnancy, the reason for tooth decay pain is typically the same as it is for swollen gums and thrush: hormones indicate an increase in blood flow to sensitive regions of the body, including the mouth.
Most dental problems may be treated with over-the-counter topical ointments, but if you’re pregnant, you should consult your dentist to see whether taking any oral medicine is safe.
Pregnancy Gingivitis
During pregnancy, many women notice obvious changes in their gums and oral cavity. You most likely have pregnant gingivitis if you have unbearable tooth pain, bleeding, swollen gums, and discomfort. It may be accompanied by foul breath and receding gums.
There is a risk of decay and tooth loss while you are pregnant and experience excruciating dental pain, so consult your dentist right away. You don’t want to greet your child with a crooked smile, do you?
Gingivitis during pregnancy is equally harmful to the infant. Untreated conditions frequently result in infants being born prematurely.
5 Ways ease wisdom tooth pain while pregnant
Unbearable tooth pain while pregnant is a bad situation for every new mother. To relieve the discomfort produced by a wisdom tooth before visiting your dentist, try the following home treatments.
- Use an ice pack on your jaw to help decrease inflammation and soreness.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to remove any debris.
- To relieve discomfort, lay the clove on the wisdom teeth.
- Directly apply peanut butter on the tooth.
- Visit your dentist and get the necessary drugs and dental treatments while you’re pregnant.
Home Treatments to Ease Unbearable Tooth Pain while Pregnant
If your dentist puts off a dental procedure until the second trimester, there are lots of things you may do at home to ease pain in the interim. Begin by identifying foods and beverages that aggravate sensitivity or discomfort. You may like our recent publication on the 21 Foods to eat during pregnancy.
- Some women’s sensitivity rises when they consume hot meals or drink hot beverages, whereas others’ sensitivity increases when they drink cold beverages or eat cold foods. Alcohol-based mouthwashes may exacerbate your discomfort.
- By rinsing your mouth with warm, salty water, you may be able to reduce swelling and irritation. Alternatively, use a cool compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
- Ask your doctor or dentist whether an over-the-counter dental antiseptic containing benzocaine or pain medications such as acetaminophen are okay to take.
5 Home Remedies for Unbearable Tooth Pain while Pregnant
Although there are at-home treatment alternatives, seeing your dentist or dental hygienist is the safest and most effective way to cope with a toothache during pregnancy. The majority of routine dental operations, such as professional cleaning, are completely safe for both the mother and the fetus.
Simply inform your dentist that you are expecting a child, and he or she will take extra precautions throughout treatment. You can attempt a variety of home remedies to assist relieve toothache discomfort while pregnant.
Baking soda is a traditional cure because it helps to neutralize acids, which helps to prevent decay and germs. Brushing too hard with baking soda, on the other hand, might remove your enamel. Other at-home options for unbearable tooth pain while pregnant are:
1. Aloe Vera
This plant, which has antibacterial and antifungal qualities, can help minimize bacterial development and alleviate any gum swelling you might have while pregnant.
2. Milk
Milk contains calcium and vitamin K, both of which are important for gum health. Drinking warm milk a couple of times a day will help minimize gum bleeding and inflammation, but brushing your teeth twice a day is still recommended since milk promotes plaque development.
3. Pomegranate
Pomegranate juice can help battle plaque accumulation and bacterial infections as a prophylactic strategy. Make sure to consume or rinse with pomegranate juice that is sugar-free.
4. Garlic
Garlic is a natural antibiotic that can help destroy any germs in the affected region, which may help lessen the pain as an alternative to using painkillers. Simply peel a clove and swallow it or apply it straight to the afflicted region. Just remember to bring some extra breath mints with you
5. Clove
Clove or clove oil, a natural antibacterial, can be administered directly to the damaged tooth for quick relief.
4 Preventions for Unbearable Toothache while Pregnant
With all you’ll be going through physically throughout pregnancy, you’ll want to avoid dental discomfort as much as possible. This begins with good oral hygiene practices, which are critical given the possibility of acquiring dental issues. Here are some options:
1. Take good care of your teeth
Take good care of your teeth. Because you’ll be weary and achy, it’ll be tempting to go to bed without cleaning your teeth – but don’t. Maintain a consistent regimen. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day at the very least. To prevent cavities and strengthen your teeth, use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash.
2. Rinse your mouth after vomiting
If you get morning sickness, drink water or rinse your mouth after vomiting. This aids in the removal of gastric acid from the teeth. But don’t clean your teeth right away. It may sound strange, but after vomiting, your mouth’s acidity level rises. Brushing your teeth after vomiting might cause more harm than good, so wait at least an hour before doing so.
3. Dental cleanings
Inform your dentist that you’re expecting a child and ask if you’ll require more frequent dental cleanings. Speak with your health-care professional as well. During pregnancy, certain insurance policies pay for additional dental cleanings.
4. Healthy intake
Reduce your intake of sugary and carbohydrate-rich meals. Snack on fresh veggies, whole-wheat crackers, and fruit for a nutritious snack. Let’s see the 20 fruits you should avoid during pregnancy.
When to Visit Dentist During Pregnancy?
Don’t allow seeing the dentist slip through the cracks between medical visits, hospital tours, and nursery preparations before your baby arrives. Getting a dental checkup while pregnant is both safe and beneficial to your dental health. Not only can you schedule cleanings and procedures such as cavity fillings before your baby is born, but your dentist may also assist you with any pregnancy-related dental issues.
Women should seek dental treatment when pregnant, according to the American Dental Association, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Academy of Pediatrics. “It’s a critical moment in a woman’s life, and excellent oral health is strongly linked to good overall health,” explains Aharon Hagai.
Dental Anesthesia Side Effects in 4 Tooth Treatments
You don’t have to worry about the safety of the numbing drugs your dentist may use during the treatment if you’re pregnant and need a filling, root canal, or tooth extraction. They are completely safe for both you and your child.
One research published in the Journal of the American Dental Association in August 2015 monitored a group of pregnant women who underwent procedures involving anesthetics such as lidocaine injections and a group who did not.
These therapies were shown to be safe during pregnancy since they had no effect on the rate of miscarriages, birth abnormalities, preterm, or infant weight. Dr. Hagai, the research’s lead author, said, “Our study found no indication that dental treatment with anesthetics is detrimental during pregnancy.”
“Our goal was to see if there was any link between dental treatment with anesthetic and pregnancy outcomes.” We couldn’t discover any such danger.”
1. X-Ray Exams
It is safe to have an X-ray when pregnant. Although dental X-rays emit very little radiation, your dentist or hygienist will cover you with a lead apron to protect your abdomen. To protect your thyroid from radiation, your dentist will place a leaded collar around your neck.
2. Regular Teeth Cleanings
Brush twice a day with toothpaste, which is particularly created to ease the discomfort caused by tooth and gum sensitivity while also protecting enamel.
To gently clear plaque accumulation, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, or switch to an electric toothbrush with a sensitivity setting for a more effective clean.
To help soothe bleeding gums, rinse with a mouthwash intended to decrease the early indications of gum disease, such as Crest Gum Care.
3. Fillings & Crown Onlays
Fillings and crowns are both critical procedures for preventing infection in your teeth from spreading. These dental operations may take time and may cause some discomfort for pregnant women in their first and third trimesters, which is not ideal.
4. Teeth Whitening
There are presently no studies demonstrating that tooth whitening is harmful to pregnant mothers or their children. Teeth whitening can be thought to be safe for pregnant women because there appear to be no serious negative effects. You and your kid will be safe if you get your teeth whitened while pregnant.
The American Dental Association (ADA) advises dentists to “consider proposing that teeth whitening be postponed during pregnancy,” and most dentists follow this advice and do not recommend whitening for pregnant women.
The major reason for this is that pregnancy can induce several changes in women’s dental health, making teeth whitening unfeasible or complicating the process. The following are some of the changes:
- Teeth loosening owing to elevated estrogen and progesterone levels in the body
- A greater risk of dental erosion and demineralization as a result of morning sickness, which causes stomach acid to come into contact with the teeth
- An increased risk of cavities and gum disease as a result of hormonal changes, changes in oral hygiene, and pregnancy-related dietary cravings, which result in higher plaque and oral bacteria levels
While teeth whitening is feasible while pregnant, most dentists encourage women to postpone non-essential dental operations until after the birth of their child. This helps to avoid difficulties and assures your and your child’s safety.
Novocaine & Lidocaine During Pregnancy
The most frequent local anesthetic in a dental cartridge is lidocaine. Lidocaine’s protein binding is less extensive than that of bupivacaine. The quantity of lidocaine transmitted from the mother to the fetus is likewise substantially large because the fraction of free lidocaine is relatively high. As a result, the fetal-to-maternal ratio of lidocaine is rather high.
Lidocaine is used with vasoconstrictors to minimize absorption of the local anesthetic, reduce toxicity, and boost analgesic effects. As a vasoconstrictor, epinephrine is frequently used with lidocaine in dentistry cartridges. As a vasoconstrictor, epinephrine is frequently used with lidocaine in dentistry cartridges.
The epinephrine-induced vasoconstriction slows the mother’s absorption of local anesthetics, allowing lidocaine to be absorbed gradually in the maternal systemic circulation and blood levels of lidocaine to gradually rise.
The local anesthetic is slowly administered to the fetus, increasing its margin of safety. Lidocaine may be regarded as safe for use in pregnant women, given that local anesthetics have little direct effects on the fetus even at submaximal dosages.
Epinephrine, on the other hand, can diminish blood flow within the uterus to a degree proportionate to its dosage, as well as uterine contractile force.
Oral Health During Pregnancy
Improving the dental health of pregnant women is one strategy to avoid cavities in early childhood. Pregnancy may increase the risk of periodontal (gum) disease and cavities in women. Given that poor oral health during pregnancy can contribute to poor health outcomes for both the mother and the infant, dental health may be considered an essential element of prenatal care. Tiny must be protected.
The Teeth External symbol contains a variety of eye-catching resources to raise awareness that oral health should be a component of prenatal care, as well as advice on how pregnant women and new moms may safeguard their dental health and that of their babies.
4 Ways to Respond your Oral Health during Pregnancy
The toothpaste you can purchase while pregnant, Although pregnancy limits some of the medical interventions commonly used to treat painful teeth and gums, with a little additional care and attention, you can maintain your smile healthy over the nine months leading up to your baby’s birth.
Maintaining all of your good hygiene practices will keep you healthy and pain-free in the long run, so don’t forget to take care of your mouth as well. During pregnancy, there are four things you may do to help your sensitive teeth:
1. Select a brush with a soft bristle
According to the March of Dimes, sensitive teeth necessitate a tender touch. A soft-bristled brush, such as the Colgate SlimSoftTM, cleans thoroughly and softly between and around teeth, reducing future pain and bleeding gums.
2. Keep track of the foods that cause sensitivity
Have you ever had a toothache after consuming tea? Do you find that eating ice cream makes you feel nauseous? These “trigger foods” should be avoided at all costs. According to the American Pregnancy Association, sensitivity in the gums usually goes away after pregnancy, so any discomfort in your teeth should go away as well, allowing you to eat hot and cold foods again soon.
3. Consume less sweets
Sugar feeds the microorganisms in your mouth, causing cavities and mouth discomfort. Reduce the quantity of sweets you consume if at all feasible. If you really must indulge, do so after brushing to eliminate the new particles from your mouth.
4. Make an appointment with your dentist
Don’t let your pregnancy be an excuse to skip your monthly dental checkups, which will maintain your healthy smile even while you’re pregnant. Simply inform your dentist that you are expecting so that appropriate safeguards may be taken (like forgoing certain types of x-rays).
Pregnancy does imply a period of change, particularly for your body. You do not, however, have to suffer from dental pain. Consult your OB/GYN for safe pain medication options and to make sure your sensitive teeth don’t make the next nine months unbearable. You’ll be able to enjoy your pregnancy without worrying about dental complications if you follow professional advice and take good care of yourself.
4 Effects of Pregnancy on your Mouth
Although many women make it through the first nine months of pregnancy without experiencing any dental problems, pregnancy can exacerbate existing disorders or cause new ones. Regular dental examinations and proper dental hygiene habits can help you and your infant stay healthy.
1. Gingivitis during pregnancy
Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy might have an impact on your mouth. For example, some women develop “pregnancy gingivitis,” which is a gum infection that can cause swelling and pain. When you clean or floss your teeth, your gums may bleed a bit. Gingivitis, if left untreated, can progress to more serious types of gum disease. To avoid this, your dentist may prescribe more frequent cleanings.
2. Rise in the Chances of Tooth Decay
Cavities may be more common in pregnant women for a variety of reasons. This might lead to tooth decay if you consume more carbs than normal. Morning sickness can increase the amount of acid in your mouth, which can erode away at your tooth’s outer layer (enamel).
For a variety of reasons, including morning sickness, a more sensitive gag reflex, painful gums, and weariness, brushing twice a day and flossing once a day might fall by the wayside during pregnancy. Poor habits during pregnancy have been linked to premature birth, intrauterine growth restriction, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia, so it’s extremely vital to stick to your regimen.
3. Tumors of Pregnancy
Overgrowths of tissue known as “pregnancy tumors” form on the gums in certain women, most often during the second trimester. The most common cause of swelling between teeth isn’t cancer, but rather a bacterial infection. It’s possible that they’re linked to plaque buildup.
They bleed freely and have a reddish-purple, raw appearance, similar to raspberries. They normally go away after your kid is delivered, but if you’re worried, ask your dentist about having them removed.
4. Medications
Make sure your dentist is aware of any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking. This information will assist your dentist in determining what sort of prescription to write for you if any. Your dentist can work with your doctor to determine which drugs, such as pain relievers or antibiotics, are safe to use during pregnancy. Your dentist and physician are both worried about you and your baby, so don’t be afraid to ask them any concerns.
#Question & Answers on Unbearable Tooth Pain while Pregnant
How do you get rid of a toothache while pregnant?
Getting adequate treatment from your dentist is the best approach to relieve toothache while pregnant. You can, however, apply home treatments to reduce the discomfort, such as a saltwater rinse or the application of clove oil to the impacted tooth.
Can a tooth infection harm my unborn baby?
When you’re pregnant, you shouldn’t take the presence of illness lightly. The illness can cause a lot of pain and suffering, which might impact your kid directly or indirectly. As a result, get treatment for a tooth infection as soon as possible to avoid problems.
Can a pregnant woman remove an aching tooth?
Even if you’re pregnant, you should get a tooth extracted if you’re having significant dental pain. Take your gynecologist’s and dentist’s advice and schedule your tooth extraction ahead of time.
Is wisdom tooth pain a sign of pregnancy?
Because of the changes in your hormones, you may suffer discomfort from your wisdom teeth when pregnant. During pregnancy, the hormonal imbalance makes your mouth more susceptible to infection and illness.
Can I get a tooth filling while pregnant?
The majority of dental operations, such as tooth extraction or filling, as well as dental cleaning, are safe to do while pregnant. However, before the surgery, planning and discussions are strongly suggested.
Is local anesthesia safe during pregnancy?
Local anesthetic is sometimes used during pregnancy. Consult your dentist, who can advise you on the safety precautions to take when receiving an anesthetic for dental treatments while pregnant.
Are white fillings safe during pregnancy?
With appropriate care and procedures, you can get a white filling while pregnant. Before beginning the tooth filling, inform your dentist about your present health situation.
What does it mean when your teeth hurt while pregnant?
Hormone imbalance is the most common cause of toothache during pregnancy. However, if you are having problems with your dental health while pregnant, see your dentist right once to avoid future difficulties
