From how to exercise to what foods to avoid, everyone seems to have a perspective on the “right way” to go through a pregnancy. Pregnancy can bring all sorts of advice. Some of this advice can be very helpful while other times the information you hear may not have evidence to support it.
One topic that often emerges is dental during pregnancy. Dental work on pregnant patients is an important topic to consider during your pregnancy, especially if you have some more invasive procedures planned.
Make Sure to Visit Your Dentist
Dental visits for routine cleanings are a good idea for prospective mothers. During pregnancy, there will be increased hormonal levels. This increase in hormones can cause gums to swell thus trapping food in your mouth.
Preventative dental work, such as annual or semi-annual routine cleanings, can help you avoid more significant problems later in your pregnancy. Higher amounts of trapped food near your teeth can cause gum disease.
The Second Trimester is Best for Dental Work
Timing is everything, especially with dental work on pregnant patients. It is essential to not only have routine checks but to fill any cavities and place crowns on teeth in need right away. As with the standard cleaning, filling cavities and placing crowns will help you avoid serious infections.
The best time to get dental work done during your pregnancy is during the second trimester. By the third trimester, it may be too uncomfortable for you to remain on your back for long enough to complete a procedure.
Once you enter your third trimester, try to wait until after your child is born. In emergency cases for tooth extraction or root canals, it may make more sense to have the procedure as soon as possible.
(Limited) Dental X-Rays During Pregnancy are Safe
You can postpone any x-rays until after your child has been born. However, the American College of Radiology holds that no one set of diagnostic x-rays will have enough radiation to cause adverse effects in a developing fetus.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), proper shielding during pregnancy allows for dentists to safely x-ray a pregnant patient’s mouth. This safety in having dental x-rays is true during all three trimesters, including the first when a developing fetus is at its most vulnerable.
Pregnancy can be a scary time. This time can become even more frightening if a need for dental work becomes apparent. Here at Southfield Family Dental Center, we care about your continued health. If you have any questions regarding dental work during your pregnancy, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.
