Pregnancy and Dental Care
Dentistry at Dr C Jagadeesh’s Dental Clinic
Dental care is very important during Pregnancy. During pregnancy the changes in hormones, lifestyle and habits, may increase your risk of dental problems during pregnancy. If you are planning to start a family, consult your dentist to discuss any treatments that can be done before your pregnancy.
Before You Get Pregnant
It is always best to make a dental appointment when you are considering to start a family as treating a dental infection during pregnancy can be very uncomfortable to the mother. Dental tretaments are usually avoided during the first and third trimester.Also,antibiotics given during this period can affect the baby as well.
At Dr C Jagadeesh’s Dental Clinic we have a oral hygiene programme where a proffesional cleaning and a careful dental examination is done to ensure any decays or gum inflammation can be treated in advance
Dental Care While Pregnant
Routine oral hygiene practices which include brushing at least twice a day, flossing once a day, and using an antimicrobial mouth rinse can help reduce the risk of dental conditions during pregnancy. Professional dental cleanings are very important during pregnancy to reduce risk of pregnancy gingivitis.
What is pregnancy gingivitis?
Pregnancy gingivitis is caused when essential hormones that help the fetus grow and develop cause many changes to your body leading to inflammation of gums, causing swelling, pain and bleeding when brushing.
It is believed that pregnancy gingivitis is caused by a decreased ability of the body to respond to bacteria as well as increased blood flow to the gums.
This gingivitis if untreated can lead to periodontitis causing the gums to detach from teeth creating pockets that can become infected. Eventually this leads to tooth loss.
Morning Sickness and Pregnancy-
The hormonal changes during pregnancy tend to cause a decrease in saliva leading to dry mouth in expecting mothers, this along with acidity, morning sickness, and inadequate oral hygiene practices creates an environment conducive to the increased growth of oral bacteria which very often leads to formation of cavities.
• If morning sickness is keeping you from brushing your teeth, change to a bland-tasting toothpaste during pregnancy.
• Rinse your mouth out with water or a mouth rinse if you have bouts of frequent vomitting.
Food cravings and pregnancy
Pregnant women sometimes tend to have unusual food cravings. If you have increased cravings for sugary snacks, it is suggested you avoid them as it may increase your risk of tooth decay. Instead we recommend snacking on foods that are healthy,low in added sugar or sugar free.
Are dental X-rays safe during pregnancy?
Dental X-rays involve a very low dose of radiation.
When it is inevitable to undergo a dental treatment due to a severe infection you may need dental xrays. Your dentist will take all the necessary precautions to shield the fetus from radiation.
Ideal Timing for Dental Procedures
Always inform your dentist if you are pregnant.
Dental procedure are avoided during the first trimester as there is a risk of miscarriage.
The second trimester is the most suitable period for elective dental procedures.
During the third trimester, the baby's weight will press down on large veins at the back of the abdomen. This can lead to discomfort and low blood pressure when lying in a dental chair, hence dental procedures are avoided during this time as well.