Having a baby is one of the most exciting events in a person’s life, but it can also feel very overwhelming and scary. All you want is for your child to be born healthy, but there are so many things to consider! It can all feel like too much to handle, and it’s perfectly natural to wonder whether you’re doing the right thing for yourself and your unborn child.
And when it comes to dental care, you might wonder whether it’s even safe to visit the dentist during pregnancy. You’ll be glad to know that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Dental Association (ADA) both recommend regular dental visits during pregnancy.
Let’s take a look at how your mouth changes when you’re pregnant and what you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy during this important phase of your life.
Oral Health Changes During Pregnancy
You know how much pregnancy affects your body, but did you know that hormones can also cause swollen and bleeding gums? When this happens, you’re more likely to trap food between your teeth, causing a dental infection known as “pregnancy gingivitis.” If you need gum disease treatment during pregnancy, we can perform a scaling and root planing procedure to restore your oral health.
Research shows that untreated gum disease can lead to increased risk to you and your baby, including low birth weight or premature birth, so it’s essential to prioritize regular dental care.
Besides gingivitis, some other potential oral health issues can occur during pregnancy, including:
- Tooth decay — Changes in diet and an increase in snacking can lead to cavities. Also, poor oral hygiene when you’re pregnant can increase your chances of tooth decay. Do your best to eat healthy foods and avoid too much sugar, and be sure to brush and floss regularly.
- Enamel erosion — Morning sickness can lead to vomiting, which can lead to enamel erosion. It’s best to avoid brushing your teeth right away after vomiting because it exposes your teeth to harmful stomach acids. Rinsing your mouth with water and baking soda is the best way to neutralize those acids and protect your teeth.
What is Safe or Should Be Avoided?
When you visit your Glendale dentist, there are certain treatments that are perfectly safe and others that can wait until after your baby is born.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Routine dental cleanings — You should visit your dentist every six months for a routine dental exam and cleaning. These preventive visits remove the plaque and tartar that can cause gum disease and cavities. Also, regular visits make it possible for your dentist to identify and treat any issues before they worsen.
- Essential procedures — If you need more than a dental cleaning, it’s fine to receive treatment during pregnancy. Fillings, crowns, extractions, and root canals are all perfectly safe. Ignoring dental issues is what can lead to serious issues.
- Local anesthesia — Keeping you comfortable during a dental procedure is one of our top priorities, and local anesthesia is safe for you and your baby.
- Dental x-rays — Because modern x-rays use such a low dose of radiation, they are safe during pregnancy. In fact, the ADA no longer recommends that you wear a lead apron.
- Cosmetic procedures — Any dental procedures that are purely elective can wait until after your baby is born. This includes treatments such as teeth whitening or dental bonding.
Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Visit
At Lucio H. Kim, DDS, we’ll do everything we can to keep you comfortable while you’re with us, but here are some things you can do to help:
- Inform our team that you’re pregnant before you arrive for your visit. We’ll want to know how far along you are, whether you’re experiencing any special concerns or if it’s a high-risk pregnancy, and what types of medications or vitamins you’re taking.
- During your visit, it’s best to keep your legs uncrossed to keep your blood circulating properly.
- Bring a pillow with you to place under your lower back or hips if you think it will make you more comfortable.
Questions About Your Oral Health During Pregnancy?
If you live in Glendale or the surrounding area and would like more information about caring for your teeth and gums during pregnancy, please feel free to reach out to us! At Lucio H. Kim, DDS, we’re committed to helping every patient achieve the best oral health possible.
We’re currently accepting new patients, so even if it has been a long time since your last dental visit, don’t hesitate to call our office. Our judgment-free approach makes it possible to get your smile back on track; there’s no need to feel embarrassed!
Take the first step today and contact us for a consultation or appointment.
We can’t wait to see you smile!