When you are pregnant, you want to be as healthy as possible. You stop drinking caffeine, take your vitamins, and eat more salads and less processed foods. Unfortunately, there are some things regarding your health that you can't control, including your oral health. Pregnancy and the rush of hormones can put your teeth and gums at risk. Your teeth are more sensitive, and gums are more prone to bleeding, inflammation and infection. You may also experience a toothache, but are unable to take the same pain killers you could take before pregnancy. Here are some safe alternatives for relieving tooth pain until you can get to the dentist.

Take Acetaminophen

While some over-the-counter pain relievers, like naproxen and ibuprofen, are no longer allowed, you can still take acetaminophen. Look at the bottle for the recommended dose, and don't increase it, no matter how much pain you are in. Typically, you will take it every 6–8 hours for pain, but look at the package instructions to be sure. If you are not sure about taking acetaminophen, ask your doctor if it is safe to take during pregnancy. You should not rely on it constantly, and you still need to see your dentist, but it can provide temporary relief.

Gargle With Warm Water

For mild toothaches, gargling with mild water may give you temporary relief. This is good if you have a dentist appointment later in the day, but find it hard to deal with the tooth pain in the morning. The warm water can soothe your gums and tooth nerves, while it rinses away bacteria that is making your tooth pain first. Some people also rinse with salt water, which helps to further break up the bacteria.

Apply Benzocaine

Benzocaine is an antiseptic pain reliever that goes along the gum line to provide temporary numbing of pain. It is safe to use when you are pregnant, as well as for your baby when they are born and start teething. You will open the top of the tube and apply the gel with your finger, or using a cotton swab. Go around the tooth on all sides, and try not to bother it with your tongue or eat or drink anything immediately afterward.

Use Clove Oil

A popular, natural tooth pain remedy that is safe during pregnancy is clove oil. You can either find clove oil in a small tincture bottle and apply it to the tooth, or you can chew on an entire clove. It may seem odd, but the whole clove when chewed on will secrete oil into your tooth and start offering you relief of your toothache.

Make sure you schedule an appointment with your dentist and let them know you are pregnant. Some dental procedures are safe to perform, while others may have to wait until after you deliver. Your dentist will do their best at helping you find long-term relief that is safe for you and your unborn baby. Contact a professional such as Brant N Olson, DDS PA. for more information.