Going to the dentist while pregnant: tips for expecting mums

Amidst the whirlwind of prenatal visits and baby showers, dental health often gets sidelined. But, can you go to the dentist while pregnant?

Yes!

Going to the dentist while pregnant is crucial, not just for the mother but also for the baby as well.

Why is going to the dentist while pregnant important?

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to an increased risk of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. The gums may become more sensitive, leading to bleeding, swelling, or tenderness.

Additionally, the surge in hormones may cause benign oral tumours or pregnancy granulomas, which, though generally harmless, can be quite uncomfortable. Untreated severe gum disease can increase the risk of premature birth or low birth weight. This correlation showcases the importance of timely dental checkups and procedures during pregnancy.

When to visit the dentist during pregnancy?

It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and continue dental check-ups throughout your pregnancy.

When should you get dental work while pregnant – safe dental procedures during pregnancy

“Preventive, diagnostic and restorative dental treatment is safe throughout pregnancy.”

The American Dental Association

Contrary to some misconceptions, regular dental cleanings, cavity fillings, and other essential dental treatment when pregnant are perfectly safe during pregnancy. However, elective treatments like teeth whitening or cosmetic procedures are better postponed until after delivery.

Radiographs

X-rays should generally be avoided, especially in the first trimester. That being said, with today’s technology and proper shielding, the radiation exposure from dental X-rays is minimal, making it safe if genuinely needed.

Medications

Always inform your dentist about your pregnancy and seek their advice, so they can prescribe medication that is safe for pregnant women. For instance, drugs like tetracycline, which can affect the foetus’s developing teeth, should be avoided.

Local anaesthesia

Necessary dental work, like dental fillings during pregnancy or extractions, can be performed under local anaesthesia. Studies indicate that it’s safe for both mother and foetus. But, as always, consult with both your dentist and doctor first.

The best time for a dentist visit during pregnancy

The second trimester is usually the most comfortable time for dental procedures. Morning sickness is generally less frequent, and the belly isn’t large enough to cause discomfort when lying down. Nevertheless, regular checkups can and should be continued throughout the pregnancy. Lying on your back at the dentist while pregnant is usually considered safe and dentists are familiar with the modifications needed to ensure the comfort and safety of pregnant patients. The dentist can elevate your upper body slightly to help prevent compression of the vena cava. They might tilt the chair to the left to help relieve any pressure.

If a procedure is lengthy, the dentist might give you a chance to move or adjust your position periodically. Let your dentist know if you feel light-headed, nauseous, or have any other concerning symptoms while lying on your back. Remember that lying on your back for long periods during pregnancy can double the risk of preterm birth or stillbirth.

It’s important to communicate with both your dentist and your prenatal care provider before any dental procedures. They can work together to determine the safest approach for dental care during your pregnancy, including the best positions for comfort and safety, and appropriate timing for necessary dental treatments.

Regular dental care during pregnancy is important, and most routine care is safe. Urgent dental issues should be addressed regardless of the pregnancy stage to reduce the risk of infection and other complications that could affect your or your baby’s health.

Dental care while pregnant – oral hygiene tips for expecting mothers

Stick to the basics. Nothing should drastically change.

• Brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque.
• If you’re more susceptible to pregnancy gingivitis, consider using an antiseptic mouthwash.
• Pregnancy can often lead to sugar cravings. Opt for healthier snacks, and if you indulge, ensure to brush your teeth afterwards.
• Consuming a balanced diet with plenty of vitamin C and B12 can help prevent oral problems.

Managing toothache while pregnant

Life doesn’t stop happening just because you’re pregnant. Toothaches, cavities, swollen gums and accidents can and do occur.

Toothaches during pregnancy are increasingly common and can be especially challenging during pregnancy. The discomfort might range from a mild, dull ache to sharp, excruciating pain, often causing additional stress. Understanding the causes and knowing how to manage them safely during pregnancy is vital.

Causes of toothache during pregnancy

Several factors can contribute to toothaches during pregnancy:

Hormonal changes

Pregnancy-induced hormonal shifts can affect oral health, making teeth and gums more susceptible to bacteria and plaque, leading to cavities and toothaches.

Increased blood flow

The enhanced blood flow to the gums, due to increased hormones, can make them swollen, sensitive, and more prone to bleeding, sometimes causing discomfort.

Sinus pressure

The growth in hormone levels can lead to an increase in mucus production, potentially causing sinus congestion or infections. This increased pressure can sometimes be felt as a toothache, especially in the upper back teeth.

Safe remedies for toothache during pregnancy

If you experience a toothache during pregnancy, address it promptly while ensuring the safety of your baby:

Consult your dentist

This should always be your first step. Describe your symptoms clearly so your dentist can provide immediate relief and suggest further steps.

Effective communication with your dentist in your native language is also critical. There are dental offices that have staff that are fluent in many common languages such as French, Spanish, Tagalog and Chinese.

Warm salt rinse

Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and use it as a mouthwash. This can help in reducing gum swelling and inflammation.

Cold compress

Applying a cold pack to the outside of the cheek for 15-20 minutes can help reduce pain and inflammation.

Safe over-the-counter pain relievers

Some OTC pain relievers can be safe during specific trimesters of pregnancy but ALWAYS consult with both your dentist and obstetrician before taking any medication.

Good oral hygiene

Regular brushing and flossing can prevent further complications that could aggravate the toothache.

Avoid certain foods

Steer clear from very hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods that might trigger or intensify the pain.

Dental care during pregnancy is indispensable. As the body undergoes numerous changes, oral health should not be neglected. From ensuring safe procedures to practising good oral hygiene, you can protect your well-being and that of your babies.

So, whether you’re expecting or planning to start a family soon, remember to include dental check-ups in your prenatal care routine. Your smile, and your baby’s future, will thank you for it.

FAQ

Is dental anaesthesia safe during pregnancy?

In the UK and in other parts of the world, dental anaesthesia is considered safe for pregnant women when administered properly. The National Health Service (NHS) and various UK dental health organisations acknowledge that local anesthetics are necessary for some dental procedures and there is no evidence to suggest they are harmful during pregnancy.

Can I get dental cleaning while pregnant?

Yes. Pregnancy dental cleaning is not only considered safe during pregnancy, but it is also highly recommended. Pregnancy can lead to increased risks of certain dental problems, such as gingivitis (pregnancy gingivitis) due to hormonal changes, which makes regular dental care during this time even more important.

What safety precautions do I need to think about when going to the dentist while pregnant second trimester?

Going to dentist while pregnant during the second trimester is the safest time to have elective dental work done. During the first trimester, the baby’s major organ systems are developing, and in the third trimester, lying on your back for an extended period could be uncomfortable and may affect blood flow. However, you should still exercise caution to ensure the wellbeing of both you and your baby

Inform your dentist about your pregnancy so they can tailor your treatment plan appropriately and avoid any medications or procedures that might not be recommended during pregnancy. Any medications like local anaesthetics and antibiotics should be reviewed by both your dentist and doctor to ensure they are safe for use during pregnancy. If possible, schedule shorter appointments to avoid discomfort and reduce stress.

Although modern dental X-rays are extremely low risk because of their focused beam and low radiation levels, your dentist will likely avoid them unless absolutely necessary. If you do need an X-ray, they will use a lead apron to shield your abdomen and thyroid as a precaution.

If there are elective procedures that can wait, your dentist may recommend postponing them until after your baby is born.

If you are experiencing morning sickness, work with your dental office to schedule appointments at a time of day when you feel best. Additionally, the smell of dental materials might trigger nausea, so ask the dentist to use odour-free materials if possible.

Stress can affect your pregnancy, so practices that reduce stress during dental procedures, such as listening to music or practicing relaxation techniques, can be helpful.

What safety precautions do I need to think about when going to the dentist while pregnant third trimester?

When you visit the dentist during your third trimester it’s important to consider a few additional safety precautions due to the advanced stage of pregnancy. Always remind your dentist that you are in your third trimester. Adjustments in care may be necessary, and certain treatments may be postponed until after delivery.

As lying flat on your back can be uncomfortable and could potentially cause supine hypotensive syndrome (a condition where the weight of the uterus compresses the vena cava, reducing blood flow to the heart), your dentist should adjust the dental chair to a semi-reclining position. They may also ask you to turn slightly to one side.

Try to keep dental appointments short to avoid any discomfort. It may also be advisable to avoid lengthy procedures unless they are urgent. Elective dental procedures often can be postponed until after delivery to avoid any potential stress on you and the baby. Review any proposed medications or procedures with both your dentist and doctor. This is especially important for any antibiotics or pain relievers that may be prescribed.

If X-rays are absolutely necessary, your dentist will use a lead apron and thyroid collar to minimise exposure to the baby. However, non-urgent X-rays are typically postponed until after the pregnancy. If you have a dental emergency, such as an infection or severe pain, it is important to get it treated promptly to avoid any risk to your health or the baby’s.

If the dentist’s mask or the smell of materials bothers you, request a well-ventilated space or a break during the procedure if needed. Make sure you are well-hydrated and have eaten a light meal before your dental visit to maintain your blood sugar levels and to help prevent feeling lightheaded. You may need extra pillows or supports to help maintain a comfortable position during the procedure.

If you experience any discomfort, such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or contractions during the dental visit, let your dentist know immediately.

How many weeks pregnant can you go to the dentist?

Other questions sked were:

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You can go to the dentist at any stage of your pregnancy. It’s important to maintain your oral health throughout pregnancy, as hormonal changes can increase the risk of certain dental issues, such as gum disease (pregnancy gingivitis) and tooth decay.

Are there any dangers of dental work while pregnant?

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• Is it bad to go to the dentist while pregnant?
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Routine dental work during pregnancy is generally considered safe. However, there are some considerations and potential risks associated with dental work at this time.

Certain medications used during dental procedures should be used cautiously. Your dentist should select medicines (like local anesthetics, antibiotics, and painkillers) that are safe for pregnant women. They usually avoid medications that are known to be teratogenic or harmful to the baby.

Dental X-rays should be avoided during pregnancy if possible, especially during the first trimester when the baby is in the crucial stages of development. If X-rays are absolutely necessary (for example, in the case of a dental emergency), your dentist will use a lead apron and thyroid collar to shield you.

Dental procedures can be stressful, which isn’t ideal during pregnancy. Stress can potentially have an impact on your blood pressure and the baby. Also, lying on your back for extended periods, especially in the third trimester, can be uncomfortable and may affect blood circulation.

Non-urgent or elective dental treatments are often postponed until after pregnancy. This is to avoid any unnecessary risks to the baby and to prevent putting you through prolonged procedures that might be uncomfortable or stressful.

While local anaesthetics are generally safe, they cross the placental barrier to some extent. The amount and type of anaesthesia should be carefully considered by your healthcare provider.

Postponing dental work can lead to the risk of infections such as periodontal disease, which has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight. Therefore, untreated dental infections pose a greater risk than most dental treatments.

For women with high-risk pregnancies, such as those with preeclampsia, preterm labour, or other medical conditions, even routine dental work may require special consideration and coordination with yout doctor.

When should I tell my dentist I’m pregnant?

Other questions asked were:

• Do I need to tell the dentist I’m pregnant?

You should tell the dentist as soon as possible, or if you plan to get pregnant, so that your dentist can tailor your dental care to your pregnancy, postponing non-essential treatments and taking special precautions with necessary dental work.

*Collaborative feature post*