Going to the Dentist While Pregnant
Is it true that going to the dentist when you’re pregnant is risky? This is a myth that has been circulating forever. You are supposed to go to the dentist every six months. When you are pregnant this is still true. You should try to stick to having your regular check-ups.
During pregnancy oral health is very important. Women experience symptoms in pregnancy that may even make going to the dentist more important than ever.
Pregnancy symptoms that affect oral health include:
- Vomiting and nausea increase acids that can cause tooth decay
- Morning sickness can cause women to avoid brushing and flossing their teeth
- Cravings can cause a woman to increase the amount of sugar she eats
- Pregnancy hormones can also cause loose teeth, swollen gums, and sensitive teeth and gums
When to go to the dentist
You should continue to go to your regular check-ups during your pregnancy. It is recommended that everyone see the dentist every six months. The best time to see your dentist is during the second trimester. The third trimester is still safe but it can be uncomfortable to lay for an extended period. And if you do need a shorter appointment, your dentist can still check that your teeth are healthy and provide your regular cleanings.
You should also call your dentist if you develop any symptoms of infection in your mouth. These symptoms include swollen/bleeding gums, bad breath, mouth sores, loose teeth, toothache, or any other pain in your mouth. If your dentist is concerned they will have you schedule an appointment.
What to tell your dentist
When you get to the dentist you should be sure to let them know that you are pregnant. They should also know if your pregnancy is a high risk pregnancy. They will need to know about any medicines you are taking during your pregnancy. If your OB has said anything about your oral health, you should also tell your dentist about that.
What you can do at the dentist
You may have heard that it isn’t safe to get X-rays at the dentist while you are pregnant. This is another myth. The dentist has a special apron that is meant to protect you and your baby from any radiation that you potentially could come into contact with. This apron makes it safe for you to get X-rays of your mouth. Getting these X-rays gives your dentist access to the most information about your teeth, making it so that he can provide the best care possible for you and your baby.
Getting your teeth cleaned and looked at is something you should do during pregnancy. Whether or not you receive other treatments is up to you and your dentist. You can have treatments done during pregnancy, such as having a cavity filled. If it is not a time-sensitive treatment though, it may be easier for you to wait until the baby is born.
What to do to keep your mouth healthy at home
It may be hard while you are pregnant, but it is still so important to keep your teeth brushed and flossed. You should be brushing twice a day and flossing once every day. You should also try to eat healthy foods and limit the number of sweets you eat. These simple things will help to keep your mouth healthy.
If you have any concerns about your dental appointment while pregnant, give our team a call. We are happy to work with you to provide the best care possible.