There are a lot of things that can happen the moment you found out you’re pregnant, or even when you haven’t. As most mothers say, the first trimester is the most critical. You’ll experience so many symptoms which can be very challenging to manage. Sensitive teeth as an early pregnancy symptom is one of them. So, how can you actually handle sensitive teeth as early pregnancy symptom?
Dealing with Sensitive Teeth During Pregnancy
When people think about discomfort during pregnancy, they usually picture back pain, sore hips, and swollen feet. But another more surprising symptom you might experience is experiencing sensitive teeth. Rest assured that you’re not alone on this one. Other women experience this odd symptom as well. Here are the reasons behind sensitive teeth during pregnancy and how to deal with it. Dental 266’s family-friendly clinic in Burwood can help you solve these issues that you’re dealing with.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth During Pregnancy?
The various changes your body undergoes while you are pregnant and can have a significant effect on your teeth and gums. Some of the most common causes of sensitive teeth during pregnancy include:
-Hormones: The American Pregnancy Association states that hormonal changes during pregnancy affect the way your body reacts to bacteria in your mouth. This can lead to a periodontal infection, which in turn may cause sensitive teeth. If left untreated, this may also affect the general health of the woman, and worse, may affect the baby.
-Increased blood flow: Your body can go into overdrive when it’s necessary to support a growing baby. As a result, this can cause increased blood flow, which can make your teeth sensitive to hot, cold, spicy, and sweet foods. You may experience this type of tooth sensitivity even if you never had prior to getting pregnant.
-Gum disease: Women are more susceptible to gum disease during pregnancy. When this temporary condition occurs during the gestational period, it’s called “pregnancy gingivitis.” You may need more frequent teeth cleanings while you’re pregnant to help lessen symptoms of sensitive teeth and prevent permanent damage to your gums. Nevertheless, it’s important that you also know how to apply proper oral hygiene.
Safe medicines you can take to combat tooth pain are limited while you’re pregnant. Fortunately, with a little extra care and attention, you can maintain healthy, less sensitive teeth during this nine-month period. Here’s how to do it:
-Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: To prevent a painful experience while brushing your teeth, make sure you use a soft-bristled brush and apply a gentle touch. Be extra vigilant by brushing after every meal, not just in the morning and again at night.
-Change your toothpaste: If you experience sensitivity to hot and cold foods, try a toothpaste that is designed to combat sensitive teeth. It takes a few days for the effect to kick in, but you will notice a big difference once it does.
-Floss daily: Traditional flossing is useful for scraping tooth surfaces and removing food particles and plaque trapped between teeth. But when you have sensitive teeth, it may be better to use a water flosser. This removes even more particles and cleans deeper than regular floss while also stimulating your gums for a healthier mouth.
–Avoid foods that cause sensitivity: It’s important to make a note of anything that causes tooth pain, which may include hot coffee, cold ice cream, spicy salsa, or sweet candy. Avoid these “trigger foods” until after you have delivered your baby. Also, you need to drink plenty of water (at room temperature if necessary) to clear any bacteria and food particles from your mouth after eating.
Just because you are pregnant doesn’t mean you should skip trips to the family dentist. In fact, pregnancy can have a significant effect on your teeth, so you should strive to visit your dentist at least once during this nine-month period.
While you’re at your dentist’s clinic, the dental team will provide you with a routine cleaning and check-up and fill any cavities you have. You might also want to postpone teeth whitening and other cosmetic procedures until after you have delivered your baby, but if you experience a dental emergency during this time, rest assured that your dentist can provide safe care that won’t endanger your baby.
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