Many women have experienced tooth sensitivity during pregnancy, a brief, sharp pain that occurs when teeth come into contact with cold, hot, or sweet foods, or when pressure is applied, even in women who have never experienced sensitivity before. This oral issue is closely linked to changes caused by hormones such as estrogen and progesterone during this stage. 

It is important to note that the severity of tooth sensitivity varies depending on the trimester, the expectant mother’s oral health, and genetics. In most cases, tooth sensitivity during pregnancy doesn’t have to be severe, although it’s a good idea to mention it during your dental visit.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy

The levels of estrogen and progesterone rise gradually during pregnancy to help the expectant mother’s immune system adapt to protect the baby and prepare the body for childbirth, but they also have well-documented effects on the oral cavity that can cause complications such as tooth sensitivity. 

1. Estrogens and vascularization

Estrogens cause the blood vessels in the gums become more permeable, fragile, and prone to inflammation. 

As a result, the gums become red and more sensitive to touch, and may even bleed when brushing or flossing. 

2. Progesterone and the inflammatory response

Progesterone modulates the immune system's response, causing oral tissues to have an exaggerated reaction to the bacteria that cause dental plaque and to any stimulus. This means that the teeth and gums become more sensitive, and what was previously tolerable may begin to cause discomfort or pain.

How hormones affect tooth sensitivity

The influence of hormones on tooth sensitivity during pregnancy has several causes: they can alter pain perception, microcirculation in the dental pulp, both the quantity and composition of saliva, the tissues supporting the teeth, and the mineralization of both enamel and dentin. 

1. Pain perception

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can make the nervous system more sensitive. It has been observed that the pain thresholds decrease and, for this reason, mild stimuli are perceived as more intense. The response of nerve endings also becomes more reactive. 

2. Pulp microcirculation

The dental pulp is the inner tissue of the tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves, and fluctuations in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can alter blood flow to the inner dental tissues, which may contribute to increased sensitivity of the nerve endings in the tooth.

3. Salivary imbalance

During pregnancy, the amount of saliva may decrease and its composition may change. This causes it to lose some of its ability to protect teeth from acids and help repair tooth enamel. It leaves teeth more exposed to bacteria and erosion, increasing the risk of cavities and tooth sensitivity.

These changes can be exacerbated by other symptoms such as dry mouth, reflux, or vomiting by increasing the teeth’s exposure to acids and bacteria.

4. Support fabrics

They can cause gum inflammation and cause the gums to recede slightly, leaving part of the tooth root exposed. Unlike enamel, the root is covered by dentin , and when exposed, it becomes more sensitive; this is why many women may experience tooth sensitivity during pregnancy. Previously, they were protected by the gums, but now they are not. 

Changes in tooth sensitivity during pregnancy

After childbirth, sensitivity gradually decreases in many women, but do all pregnant women experience tooth sensitivity? Not at all; it depends largely on how the body reacts to hormonal changes. Other factors to consider include the strength of the enamel and dentin prior to pregnancy, the individual’s pain perception, and their genetic makeup. For this reason, some women experience more pain while others barely notice it.

Generally, tooth sensitivity during pregnancy is temporary and is simply related to the physiological changes inherent to pregnancy. It does not indicate a serious condition, although when the discomfort is severe or persistent, it is important to see a specialist to rule out other causes. 

Remember to take care of your oral health during pregnancy: maintain proper hygiene and get dental checkups at the recommended intervals. Include specific products, such as SensiKIN, in your routine to relieve tooth sensitivity and prevent other enamel-related complications.