What Dental Work Can You Get Done While Pregnant?

Pregnancy can fill you with the excitement of welcoming a new baby, and your dental health may be the last thing on your mind. However, it is essential to maintain your oral health during pregnancy because it affects you and the baby. Therefore, what dental procedures are safe during pregnancy?

Dental procedures like x-rays, dental cleanings, fillings, and tooth extractions are safe during pregnancy. Nevertheless, before getting a dental procedure during pregnancy, you should discuss it with your dentist in Westminster.

Can Do Dental X-Rays?

Pregnancy can cause wear and tear on your teeth because of hormonal changes, extra snacking, and nausea. Therefore, it is best to get appropriate dental care during pregnancy to preserve your and the baby’s oral health.

Dental X-rays are safe during pregnancy. However, your dentist will cover you with a lead apron to protect you and the baby during an X-ray. Therefore, ensure you inform your dentist you are pregnant before getting an X-ray.

Tooth Extractions

Although tooth extractions are safe during pregnancy, it is best to schedule them for your second trimester. During the first trimester, your baby’s vital organs are still developing, and it is best to eliminate risks. The third trimester is also safe for an extraction; however, you have to lie down on your back for extended periods during tooth extraction, which may be pretty uncomfortable.

Nevertheless, if extraction is essential, you should discuss with your dentist to know the safe medications you can use.

Dental Fillings

vomiting can increase your mouth’s acidity and increase your risk of tooth decay. Also, snack cravings and poor attention to your oral health may cause dental caries. It is not advisable to put off your dental care till after your pregnancy because of your worries, as it may compound oral health problems.

Before getting a dental foiling, discuss it with your dentist. Fillings contain mercury, which can be risky for the baby. Usually, your dentist in Westminster may recommend temporary filling or mercury-free fillings.

Dental Cleanings

dentists encourage getting dental cleanings during pregnancy. Pregnancy increases your risk of gingivitis. However, regular dental examinations and cleanings can prevent gingivitis. You should visit your dentist if you notice symptoms, including red puffy gums or tender or bleeding gums when you brush or floss. However, it would be best if you didn’t wait till you see symptoms of gingivitis before visiting a dentist for a dental cleaning.

Anesthesia

Several dental procedures require dental anesthesia to numb you to the pain. The use of local anesthesia is safe for pregnant women during a procedure. However, if you are concerned about the safety of anesthesia, discuss with your dentist about its safety. Although you can request the dentist to use as little anesthesia as possible, you can ask for more if you feel pain during the procedure; all that matters is that you and the baby should be comfortable.

Tips For Maintaining Your Oral Health in Pregnancy

• Brush and floss your teeth daily using fluoride toothpaste
• Schedule regular dental exams and cleanings
• Inform your dentist about your pregnancy
• Postpone elective or non-essential dental procedures till your second trimester or after delivery.

Conclusion

Dental health is vital during pregnancy. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that can affect your oral health. Therefore, it is best to consult with your dentist in Westminster to ensure your oral health is in good condition. Preventive dental care prevents oral health problems from escalating, keeping you and your baby safe.

At Fox Creek Dental by Espire Westminster, a team of dentists is available to always listen to you and recommend the best treatment plan to keep you and your baby safe. Kindly reach out to book an appointment today.