When becoming pregnant, your fluctuating hormones can cause increased dental problems. As your hormone levels rise, your mouth can succumb to gum disease, risk of tooth decay, and won’t fight off plaque as well as it does when you’re not pregnant. When you’re expecting a baby, follow these tips to keep your mouth healthy throughout your pregnancy journey.
Though pregnancy doesn’t automatically mean you will have more mouth problems, it can contribute to them if you’re not careful. When pregnant, women are more susceptible to dental problems because of their fluctuating hormones. During pregnancy, the increased hormones can lead to some of these common problems listed by BetterHealth:
This is a common concern as most soon-to-be moms worry if having dental treatments done during pregnancy is safe. The American Pregnancy Association says, “preventative dental cleanings and annual exams during pregnancy are not only safe but are recommended.” These regular checkups are more important now than ever. If that doesn’t put you quite at ease, let’s look at it a little more in depth.
These are extremely safe for expecting moms and important for their health. During pregnancy, like we’ve mentioned, the hormone levels subject women to more dental problems. Continuing on with your regular trips to the dentist will help prevent or stop problems before they become too out of hand.
Women can begin to experience painful swollen red and bleeding gums that can bring on gum disease and other infections. When continuing to visit the dentist regularly, it can help prevent gum disease, which has been shown to cause preterm births.
It is safe to have a cavity filled during your pregnancy, even if you need a slight amount of local anesthesia to get through it. In fact, it might be best to ensure that your body isn’t experiencing extra stress that is then placed on the child.
If you need a crown while pregnant, it’s safe to get. It can also help prevent further infection, which is a win.
The use of x-rays during pregnancy is safe when done correctly by covering the mom’s entire abdomen with an appropriate apron. However, if you’re nervous about this, x-rays can typically be put off until you give birth.
The best time to have dental work will be during your second trimester, because this means most of your baby’s organs are developed and there is less risk for side effects. However, once you hit the third trimester it might be best to put off any needed work until you have your baby. Your dentist will be able to answer all of your questions and concerns about any procedure you need while pregnant.
It’s important to be cautious with medications while pregnant. If you need some dental work done, we will use as little anesthesia as possible so that you’re comfortable, but so it won’t affect the baby. It’s important to feel comfortable during your treatment while pregnant so that the baby doesn’t experience any unwanted stress.
It’s also considered safe to take antibiotics while pregnant if you’re needing to fight off an infection. Your dentist will be able to tell you exactly which antibiotic is best for your situation.
While pregnant continue to brush and floss as nomal, twice a day. The ADA also recommends following these tips for a healthy mouth during pregnancy:
At Mountain Aire Dentistry we will provide you with complete dental care for whatever part of life. If you’re expecting, come see us to learn how to care for your mouth during your pregnancy. Call us today at (303)-731-7755 to make an appointment.
When you visit our Broomfield dental office, your smile is our top priority. Our Dentists invite you to experience the difference a warm and caring team can provide for you and your family. Enjoy a unique and comfortable dental experience designed to bring a healthier and happier smile back into your life. We invite you to call or visit our Broomfield dental office and discover the exceptional difference we offer to those we serve.