While most people keep an eye out for typical pregnancy symptoms such as fatigue or a missed period, your teeth and gums might be more telling than you think. Is teeth and gum sensitivity a symptom of pregnancy? The answer might surprise you!

Hormones Can Alter Your Level of Teeth and Gum Sensitivity

Hormones are powerful messengers in the body, and yes, they can make your teeth and gums more sensitive! Some mothers-to-be go through periods of teeth and gum sensitivity, while others may have it consistently throughout their pregnancy.

In fact, hormones can even alter the way your body responds to a potential infection, such as the infection that can come with gum disease. These changes can cause sensitive teeth and gums, which should always be checked out by a dentist to protect you and your little one!

Increased Circulation Can Cause Swollen Gums

Most women will experience an increase in blood circulation during pregnancy in order to provide the developing fetus with nutrients during this essential time. However, this increased blood flow can cause your gum tissue to swell and become sensitive as well.

You may find that brushing your teeth is painful, or, you may have sensitivity to hot and cold foods where you didn’t have sensitivity before. However, swollen gums can also be a symptom of gum disease, so if this symptom persists, don’t hesitate to follow up with your dentist.

Many Expecting Mothers Are Prone to Gum Disease

Pregnant women are more susceptible to gum disease due to their fluctuating hormones. If you’re vomiting as a result of the morning sickness that the majority of new mothers experience, your teeth can be negatively impacted by your pregnancy.

If you’re seeing symptoms of gum disease, such as swollen, red gums, bad breath, or increased tooth sensitivity, don’t just blame it on your pregnancy. Gum disease in women has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight, so getting this infection treated is not only important to your health, but to your baby’s health as well.

Getting treatment for gum disease during pregnancy is safe, so schedule an appointment with your dentist if you’re having symptoms to ensure you have a safe, healthy pregnancy.

Are you concerned you might be pregnant? It’s true that changes in your oral cavity—including increased teeth and gum sensitivity—can be a symptom of pregnancy. Don’t wait to schedule an appointment with your dentist during your pregnancy to get your smile checked out. You’ll enjoy your pregnancy even more with a healthy smile!

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Determine What’s Causing the Swelling

After your dentist visit to check for gum disease, discuss what could be causing the swelling. You may have just gotten braces, your wisdom teeth removed, or had an injury to your mouth. These are the more obvious causes, but there are less obvious ones as well. Pregnant women tend to experience swollen gums, or you may not be brushing and flossing properly. Only when you determine what’s causing the swelling can you take effective steps to treat the problem!

Brush and Floss Gently

Are you brushing too hard? This could be causing your gum irritation. You want to be sure to choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently. Plaque doesn’t require much effort to remove, and if you’re brushing twice a day, soft brushing will certainly do the trick to remove this sticky substance. Flossing gently once a day can also help to remove any plaque that’s built up and could be irritating your gums. The American Dental Association recommends you use about 18 inches and use a clean section for every tooth!

Rinse with Salt Water

A salt water solution could help soothe your gums and remove any irritants such as bacteria or trapped food particles. Try a quarter teaspoon or up to a teaspoon in a cup of warm water. Swish the salt water around gently in your mouth for a minute or so, then spit out. Be sure not to swallow as this solution could contain bacteria and food particles that you don’t want in your body!

Do Warm and Cold Compresses

Alternating warm and cold compresses to the outside of the affected area can increase circulation and help reduce your gum swelling. While warm compresses tend to be soothing, cold compresses are more effective at helping to reduce pain. Alternate warm and cold and hold against your face, don’t apply the compress directly to your gums. Always be sure to use a clean cloth and never apply extreme temperatures to your skin.

Check Your Diet

If you and your dentist are stumped about what’s causing your gum swelling, it might be time for some blood work. You could be deficient in key nutrients that could be leading to circulation or healing issues. Always ensure to eat a well balanced diet with plenty of fresh vegetables, protein, and healthy fats. These foods will help encourage total oral health in addition to reducing your gum swelling.

Gum swelling can be unsightly and painful. Your first step is a trip to the dentist to ensure you’re not suffering from gum disease. Then, you can try the steps listed above to try and improve your gum swelling. Soothing compresses, salt water rinses, and proper brushing and flossing can help!

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