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While you should always maintain oral care and hygiene, it becomes all the more important when you become responsible for another life developing inside you. With your schedule already packed with doctor’s appointments, maternity exercises, and the like, dental care often gets overlooked or not investigated at all. Even if you want to include it in your routine, there are just too many questions that often remain unanswered. We at Clover Dental will help you with that today.
Can I Visit My Dentist When I’m Pregnant?
This is one of the most common questions we get from our expecting clients. The short answer is – absolutely yes! In a recent study conducted by the Australian Dental Association, it was found that 53.7% women believe that visiting the dentist during pregnancy can harm the baby. This belief has no grounds and it’s a myth. As a matter of fact, the question shouldn’t be whether you should visit the dentist at all, rather it is all the more important to visit your dentist when you are pregnant.
Moreover, visiting the dentist during pregnancy shouldn’t be considered optional at all. Studies have revealed that there is a connection between gum disease in women who are pregnant and premature birth of their babies.
The dentist might suggest several appointments during your pregnancy to check if everything is going fine. This way they can treat any developing issues in your teeth or gums and avoid further complications at later stages of your pregnancy.
Clover Dental tip: Visit your dentist before you plan on getting pregnant, this allows your dentist to address any dental concerns, such as impacted wisdom teeth, before your pregnancy.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe During Pregnancy?
Modern X-Rays have very low radiation. When dental x-rays are required, your dentist will provide you with a protective lead apron so that your baby is protected from exposure to radiation.
It’s always a good idea to tell your dentist beforehand if you’re pregnant. They will take extra precautions to ensure you undergo safe scans and treatment.
Are Anaesthetics Safe to Administer During Pregnancy?
Anaesthetics in general do not harm the baby. If you have to go through a necessary dental procedure, it’s better to take a safe anaesthetic for you to better handle the pain during the session, which wouldn’t stress the baby as well. Just inform your dentist about your pregnancy so they choose the right type and amount of anaesthetic for you.
There are certain chemicals used in some specific types of anaesthetics which aren’t safe when pregnant, like felypressin. Don’t hesitate to clarify your doubts and ask your dentist about the type of anaesthetic they would be using.
Can I Undergo Root Canal Treatment During Pregnancy?
Root canal procedure is done when a tooth decay reaches the nerve endings of your teeth, making it an intensely painful experience. It is one of the cases where you don’t have the luxury to ‘wait it out’. The good news is that root canal treatment can be done at any trimester of pregnancy. However, it is better to go for invasive procedures like this after the second trimester, where possible.
Is There Some Home-Care Routine for Oral Health?
Though there aren’t any DIY ‘cures’ or treatments for dental issues that are serious in nature, such as tooth decay and gum disease, you can definitely adopt some good practises at home to maintain your oral hygiene and prevent certain oral issues. Here are some of them:
1. Brush everyday
A toothbrush is your teeth’s best friend. Brush twice a day to prevent harmful bacteria and plaque from building up in your mouth. Brushing not only helps with keeping your mouth clean and odour-free but it also helps prevent certain oral problems like gingivitis.
2. Floss and rinse regularly
Just brushing is not enough, flossing is also important in preventing pregnancy gingivitis, and it reduces your risk of tooth decay. You may also rinse your mouth regularly if you suffer from morning sickness. The stomach acids that are introduced into your mouth can cause damage to your tooth enamel.
3. Eat healthy
Eating a healthy diet is essential for your teeth, and your baby’s as well. Babies begin forming teeth from the eighth week of pregnancy. So limit food and drinks high in sugar, and increase your calcium intake.
Conclusion
Caring for your teeth is important for you and your baby’s health. It is safe to visit your dentist for a check up when you are pregnant. Looking for a dentist in Brunswick? Book a dental consultation now with Clover Dental by calling us on 03 9380 1107 or emailing us at info@cloverdental.com.au.
