Can I Go To the Dentist if I’m Pregnant?
A new bundle of joy is on the way, and as an expecting mom, your mind is on making sure your pregnancy goes smoothly. Part of a healthy pregnancy is keeping after your oral health. Many expecting mothers are not aware of the effects of pregnancy on your smile. County Dental at Fishkill is happy to provide all of our expecting mothers with the information they need to ensure a healthy smile for a healthy pregnancy.
Gingivitis and Pregnancy
During pregnancy, your body is going through hormonal changes. Your gums are much more sensitive, and it is much easier to develop gingivitis. This is known as pregnancy gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums that can cause swelling and tenderness. Brushing and flossing may cause your gums to bleed, due to their sensitivity.
Dental Treatments During Pregnancy
We at County Dental at Fishkill advise you to inform us if you are pregnant, so we may be able to take the proper precautionary measures when providing treatment. Dental treatments during the first trimester and second half of the third trimester should be avoided. This is to protect the baby’s development during this crucial time.
Routine dental care, however, can be received during the second trimester. Receiving your dental cleanings becomes very important to prevent gingivitis, as stated above. It becomes even more important to brush and floss, to keep harmful bacteria away and avoid infections that could harm your baby’s development. Talk to our hygienists at County Dental at Fishkill to schedule your cleaning, and keep periodontal disease away during your pregnancy.
Helpful Dental Health Tips During Pregnancy
Morning sickness is never a pleasant experience for expecting mothers, nor is it pleasant for your smile. It might be wise to switch to a bland tasting toothpaste. Rinsing your mouth out with water is a must to clean out the harmful acids in your mouth from frequent vomiting.
County Dental at Fishkill recommends that you also avoid sugary snacks. Keep in mind that the more frequently you snack, the greater the chance of developing tooth decay. Additionally, some studies have shown that the bacteria responsible for tooth decay are passed from the mother to the child. So be careful of what you eat.
Talk to your dentist here at County Dental at Fishkill about the names and dosages of all drugs you are taking. This includes medications and prenatal vitamins prescribed by your doctor. Your dentist may need to adjust your dental treatment plan based on this information. Certain drugs can affect the development of your child’s teeth and should not be given during pregnancy.
Try to make a dental appointment before getting pregnant. That way, your teeth can be professionally cleaned, gum tissue can be carefully examined, and any oral health problems can be treated in advance of your pregnancy. County Dental at Fishkill has appointments available to accommodate your schedule. Contact us today at (845) 897-2097 or schedule an appointment online to receive your cleaning, examination, and x-rays prior to your pregnancy.
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