Understanding the Causes of Toothache During Pregnancy
Hormonal changes can affect the pH balance in the mouth, giving harmful bacteria an advantage. This can cause plaques and acids to build up, making tooth pain more common and tooth decay a greater risk. During the early months of pregnancy, many women experience frequent vomiting. This contributes to high acidity in the mouth which can cause cavities to begin to form and gingivitis.
All of this makes normal oral hygiene especially important during pregnancy. However, your dentist can offer additional solutions that may help. Also, there are things you can do to help alleviate the problem.
Solutions for Toothaches During Pregnancy
The good news is that there is plenty you can do to reduce or even stop toothaches during pregnancy, and the tips and skills you learn now will help you take better care of your teeth for the rest of your life. Of course, it’s always wise to consult your dentist to make sure you are using the proper oral care techniques and ensure a more serious problem is not present.
Home Remedies
- Baking Soda: Brushing with baking soda will reduce acidity in the mouth. Some people even drink it diluted in water. Turmeric has similar anti-acidic properties and tastes good in tea. Both are very inexpensive.
- Common Herbs: Fresh, raw garlic can kill germs in the mouth and boost your immune system. Oregano also has antimicrobial properties, and basil is a potent anti-inflammatory. These can be used in a warm water rinse and are an easy way to make meals more nutritious.
- Acetaminophen: Over-the-counter painkillers will help with pain but should be avoided if possible. Acetaminophen is the most gentle of the over-the-counter pain remedies and should be resorted to first if needed.
- Salt Water Rinse: Common table salt in warm water is a good way to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth. The warm water is also an excellent way to soothe tooth and mouth pain.
- Talk To Your Doctor: Your general practitioner should be able to make pain relieving recommendations based on your patient history.
Prevention
- Regular Dentist Visits: Your dental professional may be able to spot any potential problems before they arise and help protect your teeth during this time in which they are especially vulnerable.
- Healthy Diet: Eating a nutrient-rich diet will enable your body to maintain a proper pH balance and produce the immune defense you need. As always, you should stay away from sugary foods. Visit our post on foods that help protect your teeth
- Daily Brushing: As always, you should be brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. This is your most important way to prevent tooth decay under any circumstance.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Water is a natural, gentle cleanser and will help your body to fight infection and reduce inflammation.
Remember, your teeth and gums are more vulnerable to disease and decay during pregnancy while your body’s working overtime. It is more important than ever to take good care of your teeth. However, these tips will serve you well and help protect your teeth now and for the rest of your life.
Triangle Dentistry, located in Raleigh, NC, provides a state-of-the-art facility that offers exceptional general dental and specialty services guided by empathy of a patient’s needs and desires. Services range from dental crowns to veneers and whitening procedures. For further information, questions, or to schedule an appointment, contact the office at (919) 847-6000