As many of you know, here at Laurel Dental Clinic we went through a little bit of a baby wave through our staff members this last year. They all delivered healthy, happy babies and moms are doing well; ask about them at your next visit, we love talking about our little ones!
This seems like the perfect time to address oral care during pregnancy. There are a few misconceptions out there to shed light on and we’ll discuss how and why good home care is especially important during pregnancy.
Biggest Misconceptions
One of the biggest misconceptions involved with dental care during pregnancy is that restorative treatment and anesthetic are not safe. Receiving local anesthesia while you are pregnant does not pose a risk to you or your baby.
At Laurel Dental we recommend performing treatment if decay is present, as this will worsen and ultimately cause discomfort or more significant treatment (such as root canals, extractions etc).
X-Ray Exposure
Most people know that additional x-ray exposure during pregnancy may be harmful. While this is accurate, there are certain instances where the benefit of taking x-rays outweighs the risk. X-rays are an important diagnostic tool for the dentist and if decay is visible orally, we may recommend these images to see the extent of decay and provide the best possible treatment.
If x-rays are recommended during your pregnancy, a lead thyroid and abdominal shield will be provided. Most of our staff that are providing care for you have gone through pregnancies as well and fully understand your concerns and want to provide the best and safest care for you.
Preventive Care
Preventive care, such as dental cleanings, is always important; but even more so while you are pregnant. Women may see increased bleeding and inflammation in their gums. This is often due to hormonal changes that affect the bodies response to bacteria and initiate gingivitis.
Good oral habits, brushing twice per day with a fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth daily with either floss or a water flosser is essential. Pregnant women are also at a higher risk for cavities due to diet changes such as increased snacking or more carbohydrates.
The acidity caused by the possibility frequent vomiting also increases cavity risk. These factors make it that much more important to use fluoride toothpastes and rinses to strengthen enamel.
Frequent Dental Hygiene
One of the goals of good home care and frequent dental hygiene visits is to prevent periodontal disease. Suffering from periodontal disease during pregnancy is known to have a negative impact on babies.
Maternal periodontitis has been linked with preterm birth, low birth weight babies, low birth weight babies being born pre-maturely as well as developing preeclampsia during pregnancy.
If you have a diagnosis of periodontal disease during pregnancy it is important to follow the recommendation of your hygienist to have the disease treated before baby arrives.
Individual Needs
For any treatment needs during pregnancy we typically schedule during the second trimester, when the baby has had time to develop, but you’re still fairly comfortable. As always at Laurel Dental you will be treated based on your individual needs. If you have further questions, please give us a call or ask your dentist or hygienist at your next visit.
References
Mouth Healthy – https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/pregnancy
American Dental Association – https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/pregnancy
Colgate – https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/oral-care-during-pregnancy/pregnancy-prenatal-care-and-oral-health
