Sensitive Teeth During Pregnancy

Why are My Teeth Sensitive During Pregnancy?

If your teeth and gums have suddenly become more prone to painful sensitivity it can be difficult to brush, floss, and even eat—something none of us ever want to experience when pregnant. Fortunately, by understanding the root causes of tooth sensitivity in pregnant women, you can narrow down the proper course of action to find relief. 

Hormonal changes: Pregnancy can cause a lot of changes, one of which is your hormone levels. As hormone levels change, you may notice your gums becoming more swollen and sensitive. That’s because hormone levels are directly linked to how the body reacts to plaque and blood flow. 
Gum issues: About 50 to 70% of all women experience gum care issues when pregnant which can cause additional sensitivity in the mouth. 
Morning sickness: Nausea and vomiting are common during pregnancy; however, it does leave your mouth more susceptible to stomach acids and enamel demineralization. Weakened enamel can impact your smile through sensitivity and staining.
Diet changes: Pregnancy can cause cravings resulting in more frequent eating and drinking throughout the day—which also results in a more frequent sugar intake. The increase in sugars can contribute to dental decay which often leads to toothaches. If you suspect you have dental decay, see your dental professional right away.

What Helps Sensitive Teeth During Pregnancy?

A complete oral hygiene routine of brushing twice and flossing at least once daily is crucial when pregnant. Not only will it help keep your teeth and gums in good condition, but you can also find oral care options that are suitable for sensitive teeth. 

Switch to an electric toothbrush equipped with a sensitive brushing mode like the Oral-B iO Series 9 and pair it with a brush head specially designed for sensitivity. Oral-B iO Gentle Care Replacement Brush Heads use extra soft bristles to adapt to the curves of teeth and gums for a gentle, yet effective clean.
To further add more comfort while brushing your teeth, try Oral-B Sensitivity and Gum Calm Toothpaste. The toothpaste formula designed for sensitive teeth helps soothe while delivering a gentle cleaning experience.  
Floss at least 1X/day to remove any leftover food particles and debris from between teeth. To help invigorate your gums, supplement your regular flossing routine with the Oral-B AquaCare cordless irrigator, its unique Oxyjet Technology features water-enriched microbubbles of air to boost cleaning action. 
See your dental professional every 6 months for professional cleanings and checkups and let them know that you are expecting.