If you are an expectant mother, it's natural to have concerns. You may wonder, "Is dental work safe during pregnancy?" We can help you get the answer.
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Pain, infection, and potential general health risks may affect the mother and baby.
Dental problems, if ignored during pregnancy, can lead to their progression.
Fortunately for expectant mothers, dental work is safe, but with certain precautions.
Dental X-rays and local anesthesia are common concerns during pregnancy. [1]
Oral Health and Pregnancy
The hormonal changes during pregnancy affect a woman’s oral health.
Increased levels of progesterone, leads to oral health issues like: [2]
- Tooth decay
- Risk of gum disease
- Pregnancy tumors
- Pregnancy gingivitis
If left untreated, they can cause multiple complications. [3]
Best Time for Dental Treatment During Pregnancy
It is recommended to schedule non-urgent dental work during the second term of pregnancy. [4]
The risk of pregnancy complications is relatively lower during this phase.
What Procedures Are Safe During Pregnancy?
Several dental procedures are safe and can be performed during pregnancy.
Regular dental cleanings are safe and recommended during pregnancy.
They help prevent gum diseases and maintain good oral hygiene.
X-rays are generally safe during pregnancy but used when an absolute necessity.
Lead aprons and appropriate shielding are a must to prevent unwanted consequences.
Thus, as patients, it is also important to inform your dentist about your pregnancy and take necessary precautions.
Dental fillings during pregnancy can be safely performed. These include tooth colored fillings.
It is advised to address any cavities or dental decay promptly to prevent further complications.
Root canal treatment can be performed during pregnancy if necessary.
It helps to save an infected or damaged tooth and relieve pain, reducing the risk of further infection.
Urgent procedures like tooth extractions, swelling, and associated fever must also be taken care of immediately.
Immediate treatment will alleviate the pain and prevent potential complications.
Source: ACOG [5] , Dentistry Journal [6]
Oral Hygiene in Pregnancy
Maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking regular dental care during pregnancy is essential to minimize oral health risks.
Here are some key steps to promote oral health during pregnancy:
- Healthy diet rich in Vit C
- Regular dental check-ups
- Flossing between your teeth
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Brushing using a fluoride toothpaste
- Look out for any irritations and bleeding
Source:ACOG [7] , MCHOralhealth [8]
Lying on the back at the dentist while pregnant may become uncomfortable with time.
This is due to pressure on a major blood vessel. [9]
Dentists relieve the discomfort by adjusting the position to the left side. [10]
Conclusion
To ensure the dental well-being of mother and the baby, it is crucial to maintain oral health during pregnancy.
A common question that arises during this time is, “Is dental work safe during pregnancy?”
With proper precautions, a healthy dental journey throughout pregnancy can be ensured.
This involves regular dental care, oral hygiene practices, and open communication with healthcare providers.
FAQs
Not at all! You can definitely get dental treatment done during pregnancy.
The ADA encourages regular dental visits during pregnancy.
Additionally, the ACOG and the AAP also support this recommendation. [11]
Avoid elective procedures like teeth whitening, smile correction, & other cosmetic treatments while pregnant unless necessary.
However, undergoing treatment in case of tooth-related pain or emergencies is completely safe.
Note: The safety of treatment depends on which term of pregnancy is involved.
Thus, exposing the developing baby to any risks, even if minimal, must be avoided whenever possible.
