Tooth sensitivity during pregnancy is a common complaint among expecting mothers. Hormonal changes and changes in diet can make teeth more sensitive and susceptible to decay. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of tooth sensitivity during pregnancy, ways to prevent it, and when to see a dentist.
What causes tooth sensitivity during pregnancy?
There are a few key factors that contribute to increased tooth sensitivity while pregnant:
- Hormonal changes – Increased levels of estrogen and progesterone can affect the tissues around teeth and gums.
- Increased acidity in the mouth – Morning sickness and acid reflux can cause excess vomiting and regurgitation of stomach acids, wearing down enamel.
- Changes in diet – Pregnancy cravings and changes in eating habits can lead to more frequent exposure to acidic, sugary, and starchy foods.
- Decreased saliva flow – Hormonal changes and dehydration can reduce saliva flow, making teeth more prone to decay.
- Gum inflammation – Hormonal changes can also increase inflammation and irritation in gum tissue.
What does tooth sensitivity feel like when pregnant?
Tooth sensitivity during pregnancy can cause:
- Sharp pains when eating or drinking hot, cold, sugary, or acidic foods and beverages
- Dull, throbbing pain that persists even without stimulation
- Sensitivity localized to one or more teeth
- Sensitive gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
The severity can range from mild irritation to more severe pain that disrupts your daily functions. The location may indicate issues like gum disease, dental decay, or cracked fillings.
When does tooth sensitivity occur during pregnancy?
Tooth sensitivity commonly occurs in the first and third trimesters:
- First trimester – Hormonal changes kick in. Morning sickness and reflux can increase acid wear on enamel.
- Second trimester – Symptoms may improve as hormone levels plateau and morning sickness subsides.
- Third trimester – Discomfort returns as the baby bump places pressure on internal organs. Acid reflux and urinary reflux increase.
However, tooth sensitivity can start at any time during pregnancy. Speak to your dentist right away if you have symptoms.
How can I prevent tooth sensitivity during pregnancy?
Practicing good oral hygiene and minimizing risk factors can reduce sensitivity and prevent more severe dental issues:
- Brush twice daily with a soft bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once daily to remove food particles between teeth.
- Use an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash to manage bacteria.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and promote saliva flow.
- Rinse your mouth with water after vomiting episodes.
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.
- Limit acidic foods and beverages that can erode enamel.
- Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods that can crack teeth.
- Get dental cleanings and exams every 6 months.
What home remedies can help sensitive teeth during pregnancy?
You can try these home remedies in conjunction with dental visits and good oral hygiene:
- Sensitive toothpaste – Use a desensitizing toothpaste containing ingredients like potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride.
- Over-the-counter tooth sealants – Apply sealants to protect exposed roots and fill microscopic holes in enamel.
- Fluoride rinses – Swish with fluoride rinses to strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.
- Cold compress – Place a cold compress against your cheek to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Baking soda – Make a paste with baking soda and water and rub it on sensitive areas to neutralize acids.
When should I call my dentist about tooth sensitivity during pregnancy?
See your dentist right away if you have:
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Loose teeth
- Mouth sores or ulcers
- White/brown spots on teeth
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Facial swelling
- Sensitivity that lasts more than 2-3 weeks
- Severe pain that disrupts sleep and daily function
Prompt dental treatment is important to manage issues, prevent complications, and keep you and baby healthy.
Can tooth sensitivity during pregnancy harm my baby?
Tooth and gum issues can potentially pose risks like:
- Tooth infections – Can spread bacteria to the bloodstream, increasing risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.
- Gingivitis/periodontitis – Inflammation and gum disease are linked to preterm birth.
- Oral bacteria – Harmful bacteria in the mouth may be passed to the baby during pregnancy and delivery.
Practicing good oral hygiene, eating a balanced diet, and getting professional dental care can help minimize risks to you and baby.
When can I see a dentist during pregnancy?
Dental care is safe throughout pregnancy. The ideal windows are:
- First trimester – Get routine exam, x-rays, cleanings, and any necessary fillings or treatment.
- Second trimester – Dental work is safest during weeks 4-6 months when risks are lowest.
- Third trimester – Critical dental care may be provided, but avoid elective procedures.
Talk to your dentist about your individual condition and any procedures you may need during pregnancy.
What procedures should be avoided during pregnancy?
Elective and emergency procedures that can typically wait until after delivery include:
- Teeth whitening – Bleaching agents may irritate gums and be unsafe if swallowed.
- Implants and bridges – Bone grafting and osseointegration may be impacted by hormones and fetal development.
- Orthodontics – Can begin after delivery when hormones have stabilized.
- Extractions and surgery – Only done if infection is present and antibiotics failed.
Discuss the risks and benefits of any recommended treatment with your dentist.
Tips for relieving tooth sensitivity during pregnancy
Here are some additional tips to help provide relief when you have sensitive teeth:
- Avoid extreme hot or cold foods/drinks.
- Cut food into small pieces and chew slowly.
- Drink liquids through a straw to bypass front teeth.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation.
- Try a pregnancy-safe oral numbing gel.
- Wear a bite guard at night to prevent grinding.
- Get plenty of calcium and vitamin D from your diet or prenatal vitamins.
When does tooth sensitivity go away after pregnancy?
For most women, tooth sensitivity resolves within a few weeks to months after giving birth as hormone levels return to normal. However, if decay, gum disease, grinding, or other dental issues developed during pregnancy, you may continue to have sensitivity until properly treated.
Schedule a dental exam 2-6 months after delivery to assess your oral health status. Let your dentist know if sensitivity lingers so they can identify any underlying causes.
Key takeaways
- Hormonal fluctuations, oral acidity, gum changes, and diet choices during pregnancy can trigger tooth sensitivity.
- Practicing good oral hygiene, eating properly, and getting regular professional cleanings can help minimize tooth sensitivity and prevent dental disease.
- See your dentist promptly if you have sensitivity accompanied by pain, bleeding, swelling, infections, or other concerning symptoms.
- Avoid putting off necessary dental work during pregnancy, as untreated decay and gum disease can pose risks to mother and baby.
- Tooth sensitivity usually resolves post-partum as hormones stabilize, but seek treatment for any lingering issues.
With proper care and precautions, you can keep your teeth healthy before, during, and after pregnancy. Maintain a diet low in sugary and acidic foods, practice gentle but thorough brushing and flossing, and work closely with your dentist to ensure you receive the treatment needed while expecting your little one.