Dental care is crucial during pregnancy for both the mother and baby. Not only can dentists answer general oral health questions for expecting mothers, but they can also provide resources and recommendations for dealing with the effects of morning sickness and pregnancy gingivitis. First, however, you must know what to tell the dentist and what steps to take to protect your teeth and baby.

Do:

Tell the dentist you’re pregnant.

Pregnant women should practice good oral health habits. This includes scheduling preventative exams and bi-yearly teeth cleanings. Your dental team will need to know how far along you are, what medications you’re taking, and if the OBGYN gave you any special instructions. This will ensure they can assist you with any pregnancy-related dental symptoms. 

Consume more calcium.

You will need to consume more calcium than before to help the baby’s teeth develop. This usually starts between three to six months of pregnancy. Calcium also builds strong bones, nerve function, and strong heartbeats. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends 1,000 milligrams per day for pregnant women. While dairy products are the best source, you can also eat fortified cereal, fish, almonds, and dark, leafy greens to boost your calcium intake.

Don’t:

Undergo cosmetic X-rays.

Some x-rays pose a higher threat to the uterus and fetus than others, depending on the amount of radiation exposure and the gestational period. This is one reason why you should tell the dentist you’re pregnant. They will either recommend postponing the X-ray until after the birth or reducing the amount of radiation if the X-rays are medically necessary. 

Schedule any dental surgeries or elective treatments.

To avoid unnecessary risks to the fetus, postpone all elective dental work, such as teeth whitening or dental implants until after giving birth. If you have a medical or dental emergency, consult a physician about possible surgeries. Most will still recommend postponement until after the birth, but some medically-necessary dental surgeries can be completed during the second trimester. 

These tips should help you get started on practicing good oral health during pregnancy, but if you need customized guidance or are looking for a new dentist, consult Gleason Dental Clinic. Located in Beatrice, NE, their family-owned practice has served the community for more than 45 years. Call (402) 228-3119 to book an appointment or visit their website to learn more about their services.