You’re not only eating for two, you’re brushing for two!
Taking care of your oral health is one of the keystones to maintaining your overall health.
it’s possible for you to look after your oral health while pregnant by regularly flossing and brushing.
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Hormonal Imbalances
Your hormones, especiallyestrogen, rise throughout pregnancy, which can causenauseaand vomiting.
This can lead to erosion oftooth enamel.
Rinsing with water after getting sick can help offset tooth damage.
Your blood volume increases during pregnancy.
This could be one reason for more blood when you brush.
Try using a toothbrush with a soft bristle and take care when using dental floss.
You may also have plaque buildup fromgingivitis, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).
Your dental hygienist may recommend more frequent cleanings until it subsides.
Pregnancy Gingivitis
This is a common condition during pregnancy.
Symptoms include swollen, red, and bleeding gums.
Saltwater Rinse
Try a warmsaltwater rinseto soothe a toothache.
If you’re bleeding, the cold will slow that down too.
Prevention
Tooth decay is one of the causes of toothaches, so the best treatment is prevention.
Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables can help keep a mouth and body healthy.
Keep up with regular dental cleanings.
At home, brush and floss after meals and before bed.
Try afluoridemouthwash to rinse your mouth after brushing and flossing.
Also, drink plain water throughout the day to help keep bacteria at bay.
The dentist may want to take an X-ray of the tooth and this is considered safe by the ADA.
Be sure to tell your dentist that you’re pregnant and how far along in the pregnancy you are.
Unsafe Procedures
Put off procedures that require anesthesia because not all dental procedures are safe during pregnancy.
Also postpone cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening until after the baby is born.
Summary
Pregnancy causes a lot of changes in your body and mouth.
Tooth pain can occur from hormonal imbalances, changes in diet, and gum sensitivity.
Getting your teeth cleaned regularly can help offset tooth decay and should be maintained during pregnancy.
Home remedies such as mouthwashes and saltwater rinses can help with the discomfort you may experience.
A Word From Verywell
Your oral health is important to maintaining your overall health.
Take care of your oral health while pregnant by sticking with a routine of flossing and brushing.
If you have any discomfort, pain, soreness, or excessive bleeding.
contact your dentist to see if it’s possible for you to come in for a full dental exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it could be.
Hormonal changes may cause sore gums and tooth pain.
If you’re experiencing this symptom, consider taking a pregnancy test.
Consult your physician before taking any medication.
Antibiotics that are considered safe in the short term include:
Try a cold pack for 20-minute periods.
Try drinking ice water throughout the day.
If your tooth feels lose, contact your dentist right away.
American Association of Orthodontists.Should I floss or brush first?
2018 Jan;3(1):10-27. doi: 10.1177/2380084417731097
Circulation.Cardiovascular Physiology of Pregnancy.
American Dental Hygiene Association.Now you’re brushing for two.
Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health.Vegetables and fruits.
American Family Physician.Antibiotic use during pregnancy and lactation.
