Dental care is always important, including during pregnancy. While this is a time where doctor’s visits and other appointments are a top priority for an expecting mother, visiting the dentist is still necessary. It is safe to get a checkup while pregnant, allowing you to continue being at your best oral health. Treatments like fillings and cleanings can be done prior to having the baby. Alongside this, your dentist can also assist with any symptoms you may be dealing with in connection to your pregnancy.
Informing Your Dentist About Your Pregnancy
It is essential to let your dentist know if you are pregnant. Let your dental professional also know how far along you are in your pregnancy. Sharing what medications you are currently using or any other special instructions given by your physician is significant. This way any treatments can be tailored to you to prevent any potential complications. It may be suggested to you by your dentist and physician to delay any treatments until after childbirth if you have any preexisting conditions or it is a high-risk pregnancy. Any procedure using local anesthesia during pregnancy is safe for you and your baby.
If necessary, dental X-rays can still be taken during pregnancy. The radiation levels used for X-rays are extremely low. Before taking any, once again it is crucial to inform your dentist about your baby. There would be precautions used when taking the X-rays like covering your thyroid and abdomen/stomach area with a leaded apron. Because of the advancements in dental technology available, dental X-rays are incredibly much safer than in previous years.
How Can Pregnancy Affect Your Oral Health?
Gingivitis
Many women go through pregnancy without having any dental concerns but certain oral health issues can arise or become worse while carrying your child. When ensuring that you are routinely visiting your dental professional and maintaining your oral care regimen, you and your baby will be strong and healthy.
During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes hormonal changes that can affect her oral health. A potential result of these changes can be a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. This is inflammation that is experienced in the area of the gums, where tenderness and swelling can occur. When brushing or flossing your teeth, your gums may also bleed slightly. Gingivitis if left untreated is likely to develop into other severe forms of gum disease.
“Tumors”
Some women can also have an overgrowth of tissue on the gums known as “pregnancy tumors”. This is most likely to occur during the second trimester of the pregnancy. These tumors are not cancerous and usually just swelling that happens in between the teeth. They are lumps that have a red appearance near the gum line. It has been found that this can be related to excess plaque, which would need to be removed by a dental professional. These tumors normally go away after childbirth, and if there is any concern about removal, you should consult your dentist first.
Higher Risk of Tooth Decay
Cavities are at a higher risk of forming for pregnant women. During this time, a woman can be eating more carbohydrates, which contains sugars that can eventually cause decay on the teeth. A symptom of pregnancy known as morning sickness can also lead to tooth decay. Because of the acid your mouth is exposed to, the enamel of your teeth can begin to wear away.
Other than morning sickness, there are also different reasons that important parts of your oral health routine may be missed. These reasons can be exhaustion, more delicate, tender gums, and gag reflex that is sensitive. Keeping up with your dental routine is crucial because it can lead to preeclampsia, premature delivery, intrauterine growth restriction, and diabetes.
If you have any concerns about dental care while being pregnant, contact us at Dental Made Easy. We have experienced dental professionals that can help you with all of your oral care needs!
Your Dental Health
When it comes to your health, trust in the dentists at Dental Made Easy. Dental Made Easy has the best dental practices in New York City and we are open on Sundays as well as late evenings. All of our dental offices are open and accepting new patients at this time. We are rated among the top dental practices in New York, NY with numerous 5-star reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. For a teeth cleaning or exam, we recommend calling or booking an appointment online with one of our talented dental professionals. All new patients may also take advantage of our $149 Cleaning Special that includes an exam and x-rays of our Free Dental Implant Consultation Special.
To set up your appointment give us a call at (844) 979-EASY (3279). We have offices in Forest Hills, Queens, Little Caribbean, Brooklyn and Garden City, Long Island. Walk-ins welcomed, we take emergencies and we are open on late nights to accommodate patients with a busy schedule. We hope to see you soon!
