Pregnancy is an exciting time with many challenges and changes. Staying in touch with your medical care team is important, and that includes your dentist. Oral hygiene plays an important role in pregnancy, and the dental care staff at Mammoth Spring Dental Clinic in Mammoth Spring, AR, wants to share several do’s and don’ts to keep in mind leading up to delivery. These will ensure you keep your teeth healthy and avoid any negative effects on your baby.

Do:

Tell your dentist.

When you find out you’re pregnant, let your dentist know. They may want to schedule a teeth cleaning and consultation to provide advice about dental care. They’ll also advise on diet so that you keep your teeth healthy while also sticking to any plans you’ve made with your obstetrician.

Use FDA-approved products.

Both during and after pregnancy, you should only use FDA-approved oral hygiene products. All ingredients have gone through rigorous testing to ensure they’re safe, so you can be confident you aren’t using anything that may harm you or your fetus while it’s developing. If you’re unsure, speak with your dentist about preferred products.

Don’t:

Schedule X-rays.

While the chances of oral X-rays having a negative effect on your fetus are extremely small, wait until after delivery unless your dentist advises that they’re imperative to your oral health. If they do, speak with your primary care physician and obstetrician so that they can coordinate with your dentist before committing to an X-ray. Avoid any abdominal X-rays, as these—though rare—are the most likely to have adverse effects.

Ignore pain

If you’re dealing with tooth pain, it’s not simply because of pregnancy. Tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel erosion are all possible during pregnancy, and it’s important to alert your dentist. All of these can affect what you’re able to eat and, in turn, prevent your fetus from getting all the nutrients it needs through your diet.

Whether you’re pregnant or just overdue for a teeth cleaning, the team at Mammoth Spring Dental Clinic can help. Dr. Michael Kersey, D.S.S., and his team offer a variety of oral hygiene services, including restorative dentistry, and are committed to helping patients achieve their ideal smile. From root canals to crowns and bridges, they’ll work with you to find a solution for your dental care needs. Call (870) 625-3262 today to schedule an appointment and visit their website to learn more about their practice.