How to treat tooth infection during pregnancy?

**Dental infection in pregnancy** is an important issue that can have serious effects on the health of the mother and fetus. Hormonal changes and increased gum sensitivity during this period increase the risk of dental infections. Tooth infection not only causes pain and discomfort for the mother, but it can also cause problems such as premature birth and low birth weight of the baby. Therefore, it is very important to know the symptoms, causes and methods of prevention and treatment of dental infection during pregnancy. In this article, we will comprehensively review this issue and provide key tips for maintaining oral and dental health during pregnancy. Stay with us to get useful information in this field. Reasons of tooth infection in pregnancy Hormonal and physical changes that occur in the pregnant mother's body affect her gums and teeth and provide conditions for dental infection and other oral diseases. On the other hand, lack of oral and dental hygiene and changes in diet along with other factors can lead to tooth infection during pregnancy. In the following sections, we discuss the reasons for tooth infection during pregnancy. ### tooth decay The main reason for tooth infection during pregnancy is mild to moderate tooth decay that people do not pay attention to. These decays progress gradually and cause severe infections. It is recommended that all dental problems and caries (however slight and minor) be resolved before trying to get pregnant. ### Poor oral and dental hygiene Some women ignore brushing and flossing during pregnancy due to increased gum sensitivity and nausea. Neglecting oral and dental hygiene will lead to the formation of bacterial plaques, caries and tooth infection. Therefore, oral and dental hygiene is very important during pregnancy. ### tendency to consume sugar During pregnancy, the desire of mothers to consume carbohydrates and sweet and sugary foods usually increases. These types of foods turn the oral environment into a suitable environment for the growth of harmful bacteria, which will lead to tooth decay and infection. To prevent this complication, limit the consumption of sugary foods and brush your teeth after every meal and snack and rinse your mouth with plenty of water. ### Hormonal changes One of the most important hormonal changes during pregnancy is the increase in estrogen and progesterone levels. The increase in the amount of these hormones in the body increases the blood flow in the gum and its sensitivity. This condition can cause gingivitis or pregnancy gingivitis, which, if not treated on time, can lead to gum infection and toothache during pregnancy. ### periodontal diseases Most women experience early stages of gingivitis or periodontal disease during pregnancy. If this disease is accompanied by the accumulation of plaque and food residues, it will cause inflammation of the gums, and if not treated, it will lead to severe gum infection and even tooth loss. ### Nausea and vomiting Nausea and vomiting is a common occurrence for most women in the first trimester of pregnancy. Frequent diarrhea and vomiting bring stomach acid into the mouth and cause tooth decay by destroying tooth enamel. To prevent damage to tooth enamel immediately after vomiting or acid reflux, rinse your mouth with water and brush your teeth after a while. To reduce nausea, vomiting and diarrhea during pregnancy, avoid self-medication and consult your doctor. ### Decreasing the body's immunity level During pregnancy, the immune system of the mother's body changes in such a way as to protect the fetus as much as possible. This condition reduces the immunity level of the mother's body and makes her vulnerable to bacterial infections such as gum and tooth infections. Therefore, it is recommended to visit a dentist immediately if you feel any pain or discomfort in your teeth and gums to prevent **tooth infection during pregnancy**. ### Dry mouth Saliva plays an important role in cleaning the oral environment and eliminating harmful acids and bacteria. The decrease in saliva production and dry mouth that some women face during pregnancy will acidify the mouth and accelerate the growth of bacteria, which results in infection and tooth decay. To increase saliva, drink enough water and chew sugar-free gum. What are the symptoms of tooth infection in pregnancy? Dental infection during pregnancy has symptoms that should not be ignored. Paying attention to these signs will help you to diagnose your problem early and take treatment before you face the complications of tooth infection. The most common symptoms of tooth infection in pregnancy include the following: - toothache; The most common symptom - Increased sensitivity of teeth - Pain in the jaw and face area - Headache - Ear pain - Bitter feeling in the mouth - Bad breath (even after brushing) - Gum swelling and bleeding - Swelling of jaw and neck glands - Fever If you experience any of these symptoms, be sure to consult your dentist and gynecologist to get the right treatment for you. Effects of tooth infection in pregnancy? Dental infection during pregnancy can have serious effects on the health of the mother and fetus. Research results show the relationship between infection and severe gum disease in pregnant women and premature birth and low birth weight of babies. Premature birth exposes the baby to serious risks such as brain damage and vision and hearing problems. In addition, among other **complications of dental infection in pregnancy**, the following can be mentioned: - Decreased appetite and nutritional problems of the mother - Premature delivery - Low birth weight of the baby at the time of delivery - Entering the infection into the circulatory system and transferring to other organs of the mother - Increased risk of preeclampsia or pregnancy poisoning - Intensification of infection and possibility of tooth loss - Transmission of infection to the fetus in case of severe infections Of course, there is no need to worry, tooth infection during pregnancy can be prevented and treated. Just pay attention to the hygiene of your mouth and teeth and if symptoms of tooth infection appear, see a specialist dentist immediately. ### Does tooth infection during pregnancy harm the fetus? yes Dental infection during pregnancy can be harmful to the fetus. Dental infection can lead to premature delivery and low birth weight of the baby and increase the risk of preeclampsia. In addition, severe infections may enter the mother's circulatory system and be transmitted to the fetus. This situation leads to serious health problems for the baby. Therefore, taking care of oral and dental health during pregnancy is very important and in case of any signs of infection, medical consultation is mandatory. home treatment of tooth infection during pregnancy The home remedies mentioned below only reduce the symptoms and severity of the tooth infection, and you should visit a dentist to treat this disease. Also, it is better to consult with your doctor before taking any type of medicinal plant during pregnancy so that there are no problems for the mother and the fetus. ### Garlic Garlic is a natural antibiotic and anti-inflammatory that can reduce tooth infection. Cut or crush a clove of garlic and place it on the infected area to kill the bacteria around the tooth and improve the symptoms of the infection. You can also eat raw garlic or boil it with hot water and use it to wash the infected tooth. ### ginger Ginger is an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial spice that can be found in every home. If you experience symptoms of tooth infection during pregnancy, put or chew a small piece of fresh ginger on the tooth. Or prepare some ginger tea and rinse your mouth with it to heal the pain and inflammation caused by the infection. ### Oregano Another home treatment method for tooth infection during pregnancy is the use of oregano extract with antibacterial properties. This plant is also a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that reduces the pain and swelling of an infected tooth. Mix a few drops of oregano essential oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil (such as olive oil, coconut oil, or sunflower oil). Dip a piece of cotton in this mixture and keep it on the infected area for 10 to 15 minutes. Then rinse your mouth with lukewarm water. ### clove The properties of clove oil and extract to reduce the pain caused by tooth infection are not hidden. Clove has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is known as a natural antibiotic for treating infection in pregnancy. Put a few drops of diluted clove oil on a piece of cotton and place it on the infected tooth. You can also put a few drops of clove oil in a glass of water and use it as a mouthwash or put a few cloves in your mouth to soften them with saliva. Then press them on the infected tooth to remove the clove oil. After 30 minutes, remove the flowers from the mouth. ### pomegranate Pomegranate is a fruit with anti-bacterial and anti-plaque properties that helps to reduce the disease and infection of gums and teeth. To treat infection in pregnancy with traditional and home methods, drink natural pomegranate juice or rinse your mouth with it. You can also make a decoction of pomegranate peel and use it as a mouthwash after it cools down. ### Dairy Dairy products are rich sources of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D and play an effective role in strengthening and regenerating tooth enamel. Dairy products form a protective layer on the surface of the teeth, making them resistant to corrosive acids that are the main cause of caries and reducing the possibility of caries. In addition, in case of symptoms of tooth infection during pregnancy, you can prepare a mixture of milk and turmeric and get help from it to reduce the pain caused by the infection. ### green tea Green tea contains powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that are helpful in relieving the symptoms of an infected tooth. Soak a green tea bag in warm water and let it cool. Then put it on your tooth to reduce the pain and swelling. ### salt The simplest method for ** home treatment of tooth infection in pregnancy ** is to use salt water solution. Salt kills bacteria, temporarily reduces tooth pain and infection, and helps treat gingivitis. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of lukewarm water and rinse your mouth with it several times a day. Try to keep the solution in your mouth for at least 2 minutes in contact with the infected teeth. The best dental pus dryer during pregnancy In addition to the mentioned home methods, pregnant women can use different types of antibiotics for tooth infection with the doctor's advice. The drugs that the doctor prescribes for you during pregnancy do not pose a risk to the health of the fetus, and you can safely complete the course of treatment for your dental infection. **The best tooth dryer pus in pregnancy** includes these drugs: - Amoxicillin: Amoxicillin for **tooth infection in pregnancy** is a safe and effective drug that is prescribed to treat bacterial infections. - Clindamycin: This drug is a suitable option for the treatment of dental infection, and doctors usually prescribe clindamycin for patients who are allergic to penicillin. - Erythromycin: this drug is a relatively safe option for treating infection in pregnancy. ### harmful antibiotics during pregnancy Although some antibiotics have a strong and immediate effect for the treatment of dental infection during pregnancy, their use may cause new and irreparable harm to the health of the fetus. Therefore, it is not recommended to take medicine, especially antibiotics, in pregnancy without consulting a doctor. The most important antibiotics that are harmful to the fetus and should not be used during pregnancy are: - Tetracycline: it can change the color of the baby's teeth, and the mother is not allowed to use this drug after the 15th week of pregnancy. - Doxycycline: may disturb the growth of fetal bones. - Ciprofloxacin: This drug can have a negative effect on the development of fetal joints. Prevention of tooth infection during pregnancy By following a few simple tips, pregnant mothers can prevent tooth infection during this period and keep themselves and their fetus healthy. ### observe oral and dental hygiene The first point is to observe oral hygiene. Brush and floss twice a day to remove food residue and bacterial plaque. Choose a soft toothbrush and mild toothpaste to avoid gum irritation. Using non-alcoholic mouthwashes is also safe for pregnant women. ### Dental examinations before pregnancy Visit a dentist before starting pregnancy and treat all your dental problems and gum disease. During pregnancy, if you notice the symptoms of a tooth infection, see a dentist immediately. Even if you don't have symptoms, go to the dentist regularly for checkups to prevent dental problems. Inform your doctor that you are pregnant so that the necessary safety procedures can be performed for you. ### healthy diet Follow a healthy diet. To strengthen teeth and prevent them from decay, consume foods rich in calcium such as dairy products, almonds and leafy vegetables. Limit eating sweet foods and drinks that increase the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables to clean your teeth and eliminate bad bacteria in your mouth during pregnancy.