During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes hormonal changes to support the development of an embryo into a fetus and ultimately a baby. These changes come with plenty of reactions including toothache. An expectant mother is more susceptible to tooth and gum pain. If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity during pregnancy, your hormonal changes may be the cause. For checkup and treatment, see your dentist. And there are some home remedies to consider.

What Can a Pregnant Woman Take for a Toothache?

Pain Relief Medicine

Some over-the-counter drugs such as acetamophine are recommended for toothache. While there are plenty of painkillers that can be bought over the counter, pregnant women are advised to seek their doctor’s advice first. Drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin are not recommended for pregnant women. Also take the recommended drug for the stated amount of time in the correct dosage.

Antiseptic

Antiseptics can help numb the pain and provide temporary relief. But, consult your doctor first before getting any over-the-counter antiseptic. Benzocaine can be very effective in numbing the gums when applied directly on the problem area. You can also opt for natural antiseptics such as clove oil.

Warm Water Rinse

Rinsing with warm water after every meal will work effectively in reducing tooth pain and decay. Doing so consistently will ensure that you wash away any food particle stuck in your teeth that may lead to decay and sensitivity. These simple steps may help prevent tooth decay and sensitivity.

Compression

A warm or cold compress is another answer to the question “What can a pregnant woman take for a toothache?” A compress can help to reduce swelling and numb the pain. Applying cold compress on the side of the mouth where the pain is persistent can help a lot. You can also use a warm water bottle, an ice pack or a cube of ice wrapped in a piece of cloth. Placing an ice cube on sore gum can also give relief. These methods can be used as often as necessary.

Clove

Cloves contain antiseptic properties that will help relieve the pain effectively. Simply chew on a piece of clove. Clove oil is also available for the same purpose. You can pour a few drops of the oil onto the affected area or soak a ball of cotton wool with the oil and place it on the affected part.

Onion

Did you know that onions have powerful antiseptic properties? Well, they do. Onions are known to relieve toothaches and inflammations effectively. Chewing a piece of raw onion will do the trick and provide relief. You can also apply a past of onion on the affected area.

Garlic

What can a pregnant woman take for a toothache? Garlic is worth considering. Garlic does not just enhance the flavor of your food. It also has medicinal properties, the reason why garlic has been used medicinally for centuries. It contains allicin, an antibiotic compound that fights bacteria. When a paste of garlic is applied on an aching tooth, it works to reduce the bacteria and thus reduce the pain.

Guava Leaves

Guava leaves can be crushed to a pulp, then placed on the aching part. Another way is to chew on a piece of guava leaf if your teeth are not sensitive. You can also make a mouth wash by boiling the leaves in water with a pinch of salt.

Spinach Leaves

Crush spinach leaves and apply the paste on the affected part. Alternatively, you can simply chew on some spinach leaves.

Tea Rinse

Tea contains tannin which reduces inflammation and eases pain caused by a toothache or painful gum. Soak a tea bag in warm water and gargle or rinse your mouth with the black tea.

Peppermint

Peppermint leaves are great for relieving tooth pain. There are a variety of ways to use this natural remedy. You can chew on the leaves; gargle peppermint tea or simply enjoy the drink.

Carom Seeds

Carom seeds, popularly known as ‘ajwain’ can give great help in reducing tooth pain. What can a pregnant woman take for a toothache from ajwain? Simply boil one teaspoon of whole carom seeds with half a teaspoon salt in half liter water, strain and gargle frequently

Basil

Basil leaves don’t just enhance the flavor of your food. They are an effective remedy against tooth sensitivity problems. Crush them to a paste and put on the affected area. You can also mix the leaves with peppercorns before crushing them. Another way is to boil basil and peppercorns in water and gargle the mixture once cool.

Precautions for Treating Toothache During Pregnancy

The first step is to visit your dentist. You should also avoid listening to unprofessional advice by friends and relatives. Even though they mean well, it can lead to more complications.

Your doctor will recommend treatment based on the severity. The considerations to be put forward are x-rays, surgery, anesthesia and medication.

• X-rays - Your doctor will do an x-ray if the situation strictly demands for one. X rays are not normally done on pregnant women due to the harmful effects of the radiation. To protect you and the child, the doctor will use a lead apron and a thyroid collar.
• Anesthesia - The amount of anesthesia used will be kept to a minimum during a procedure to avoid further complications.
• Medicine - Some of the available tooth ache medication such as percocet and oxycodone can lead to pregnancy complications and birth defects. This is why it is important to disclose your pregnancy to your doctor to get appropriate advice. Your doctor will recommend pregnancy-friendly painkillers such as acetamophine.
• Necessities of dental treatments - Tooth ailments need proper medication as soon as possible to avoid further damage. However, cosmetic treatments are not urgent and can be postponed till after delivery.
• Timing of treatment - The first trimester is a delicate period because of the developing fetus. Treatment can be risky at this time especially if it involves x-rays and surgery. A dental procedure can be tiring for a mother in her third trimester. Therefore, the second trimester is the best period for a dental procedure, but only if it is absolutely necessary.

How to Prevent Toothache During Pregnancy

If you can prevent it, you won’t ask what can a pregnant woman take for a toothache. There are three major ways to prevent tooth and gum complications during pregnancy:

• Dental exams - Ensure that you get treatment for any dental problems before you get pregnant. If you are pregnant, make regular visits to your dentist for further checkup and advice.
• Diet - Increase your uptake of calcium-rich foods to strengthen your enamel and also cater for the needs of the developing fetus. Reduce intake of sugary foods and confectionery, to prevent buildup of plaque which can lead to tooth decay.
• Oral hygiene - Brush your teeth regularly using your preferred toothpaste. Be consistent with your dental hygiene routine.