Is it safe to get dental care while pregnant?

Dental care whilst pregnant - Bourne End Dental

Dentists often get questions from pregnant women about certain dental procedures that can be done while they are pregnant. Since they’ve been sick for 9 months, their main worry is that the treatments won’t hurt them.

Treatments that are safe during pregnancy

Women who are pregnant frequently ask their dentists about whether or not they can undergo specific dental operations while they are carrying their child. Given the state of their bodies throughout those nine months, the primary worry they have is whether or not the therapies would be harmful.

Treatments that are safe to use during pregnancy

Not only is preventative dental cleaning safe during pregnancy, but it is also strongly suggested because to the significant rise in hormone levels that pregnancy causes. This can cause bleeding and swelling of the gums, which can trap food and contribute to irritation of the mouth and throat. This treatment is also necessary to prevent gum disease or oral infections, both of which could have an impact on your unborn child.

Other dental procedures, such as crowns and cavity fillings, which lower the risk of infection and are performed during pregnancy, are also considered to be relatively safe. Because many pregnant women have difficulties resting on their backs for an extended period of time during the third trimester, many dentists will recommend that the optimum time for pregnant women to receive treatment is during the second trimester of their pregnancy.

It is strongly advised that any cosmetic procedures, including teeth whitening, be put on hold until after the delivery has taken place. On the other hand, some dental procedures, such as root canal surgery or tooth extractions, might be required in the event of an emergency.

How to stay away from potential hazards and issues

Although there are always potential dangers, it appears that certain treatments pose less of a threat to pregnant patients than others. Even though the research is still in its early stages, some studies have already demonstrated that certain drugs that are used for dental procedures are not safe for infants who are still developing. After being administered, the dental anaesthetic lidocaine is able to pass through the placenta.

It is best practise to use the least amount of anaesthetic possible during dental procedures; but, if further sedation is required, dentists are able to provide it. Providing some mothers with additional numbing during treatment may be necessary in order to alleviate the tension they feel. Antibiotics, which fall into group B, are considered to have a low risk of adverse effects. The embryo and the developing foetus are not significantly harmed by exposure to X-rays.

It is important for pregnant women to have a nutritious diet, clean their teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and maintain regular dental checkups in order to reduce their risk of developing difficulties during pregnancy.

Because they do not consume enough calcium, a significant number of pregnant women develop tooth difficulties. Dentists strongly suggest that expectant mothers maintain routine visits to the dentist during their pregnancies for the purpose of ensuring that their gums and teeth continue to be in healthy condition.

There is no reason for anyone who is pregnant to experience discomfort in their teeth or mouth when they are carrying a child. When you find yourself in need of assistance, don’t be afraid to call your Bourne End Dental for more information.