Being pregnant is an amazing experience, even through all the ups and downs. While pregnant, it’s important to maintain your oral health. Talking to your dentist can help identify any specific things you should look out for or practices to better your oral health while pregnant. Until then, here are the basics of the do’s and don’ts of dental care while pregnant.

Do:

Tell the dentist you’re pregnant.

It’s important to let the dentist know you’re pregnant, so they can help avoid putting your baby at risk for developmental issues. While you’re pregnant, elective procedures, such as teeth whitening or cosmetic work, should be postponed until the baby is born. Urgent or emergency procedures, such as filling a cavity or a root canal, should be performed, as this can negatively affect both you and the baby if they are not taken care of. Speak with your OB-GYN before going to the dentist, as well. They may recommend talking to your dentist about avoiding or doing certain procedures. 

Use an FDA-approved toothpaste.

Since pregnant woman are more likely to develop gingivitis, the American Dental Association recommends they use an Food and Drug Administration-approved toothpaste containing fluoride twice a day for two minutes at a time. This will reduce your chances of developing dental issues throughout the pregnancy. 

Don’t:

Avoid X-rays.

While it is widely believed that dental X-rays can damage your unborn child, new research has concluded that they hardly present any risks to your baby. Since your torso and reproductive organs will not be exposed to the direct beam, dental X-rays are actually quite safe. Additionally, your dentist will use a shield to protect your thyroid and abdomen from any radiation. Still, your dentist may hold off from taking X-rays unless they feel they are necessary.

Neglect oral pain.

If you experience any oral pain, bleeding, or tender gums, let your dentist know right away. Because you’re more likely to develop oral health issues, such as gingivitis, due to a change in hormones, it’s important to monitor your oral health more closely during this time. Your dentist can still perform many dental procedures, if necessary, for the sake of your baby’s health. 

 

Maintaining your oral health while pregnant is important. Trust the dentists and staff at Dental Distinctions to help you sustain a healthy smile safely throughout your pregnancy. They’ve been providing the Kalispell, MT, area with a wide variety of dental services, such as general and cosmetic dentistry, for over 20 years. For more information on their services, visit their website, or call (406) 755-4166 to schedule an appointment.