We are often asked if it is safe to have a dental check-up and teeth cleaning during pregnancy.

Katelyn our Oral Health Therapist at Harris Dental Boutique answers this and other important questions about pregnancy and visiting the dentist.

When you are pregnant there is a huge list of doctor appointments, hospital tours, nursery shopping to be completed… It isn’t surprising that a trip to the dentist during this time is easily forgotten.

We encourage women to get dental care during pregnancy. Katelyn says

“Pregnancy is an important time for women, maintaining good oral health is directly related to their overall health, which can have a big influence on their baby too”

If you find yourself at the dentist during pregnancy, don’t worry, it is completely safe for you and your baby to have a dental check-up, dental cleaning, and any necessary treatment. Teeth cleaning, necessary X-rays, pain medication, and local anaesthesia – are all safe throughout pregnancy.

Can pregnant women have local aesthetic?

Yes, aesthetic can be used safely to numb a tooth for a dental procedure. We will choose an aesthetic that is suitable for pregnant women.

Can pregnant women have a tooth removed?

Yes, although having a tooth removed should always be a last resort, it is possible at any time during pregnancy to have a tooth removed. In fact, it is better to have a rotten tooth removed then keep it and risk infection spreading.

Can pregnant women have orthodontic treatment?

Yes, if you are undergoing orthodontic straightening you wouldn’t stop midway through treatment if you become pregnant nor should you delay starting.  Teeth Straightening can take between 6 to 24 months so many women overlap the straightening process with their pregnancy.

Can pregnant women have X-Rays?

Yes, Modern dental x-rays produce very low doses of radiation. A single dose is not high enough to cause any adverse effects to baby during pregnancy. According to the Australian Dental Association, the exposure from a dental x-ray is equal to the same you’d receive on a 1-2 hour flight or a day of background radiation.

Bundaberg Dentist Pregnant

Many women make it through their pregnancy with no dental concerns what so ever.  If you are planning on falling pregnant then having a good oral hygiene and fixing any potential issues before you fall pregnant is ideal.

Common dental issues pregnant women face:

Pregnancy Gingivitis – hormonal changes can cause gums to bleed, become inflamed and cause them to swell and become tender.

Tooth Decay – Pregnant women may be at an increased risk of tooth decay.

  1. Morning sickness exposes the outer layer of your teeth to acid.
  2. A change in diet to higher carbohydrates and sugary foods can cause decay.
  3. A touchy gag reflex, sore gums, and exhaustion may contribute to an irregular brushing and flossing routine.
  4. Bacteria causing tooth decay can spread to baby via everyday activities like, sharing spoons, kissing, cleaning dummies and bottle tops.

Whether you are expecting or not you should:

  • Brush your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste twice a day
  • Floss once a day.
  • Have your teeth professionally cleaned to remove the hardened build-up of calculus every 6 months.

Be sure to let the team at Harris Dental Boutique know if you’re pregnant, we will make sure you are comfortable and provide you with the best care.

 

Bundaberg Dentist Pregnant