It may be the last thing on your mind after you become pregnant – taking care of your teeth. However, it is just as important now as ever. Don’t skip that dental appointment, even though teeth aren’t your highest priority right now!
A trip to the dentist is safe
You may be concerned about dental x-rays, anesthetics, or medications your dentist may prescribe while you are pregnant. However, anesthetics during dental procedures and dental x-rays are safe for both you and your baby, and your dentist will know what medications are and aren’t safe to use.
The important thing is to tell your dentist you are pregnant – or even if you think you just might be pregnant. Your dentist will take this into account when treating you and can help answer any questions about safety you may have.
A trip to the dentist is important
Keeping teeth clean and healthy is always important – but especially so during pregnancy. Your dentist will want to check for “pregnancy gingivitis,” an inflammation of the gums caused by all the hormonal changes of pregnancy. If you have this condition, you may have tender gums, and untreated it can lead to gum disease. Your dentist may recommend more cleanings if he or she sees signs of this. Pregnant women may also be more at risk for tooth decay, due to a change in diet or morning sickness, which can increase the amount of acid your teeth are exposed to.
Finally, your dentist will want to check for problems such as “pregnancy tumors” (which aren’t as bad as they sound). These “tumors” are a swelling of the gums in between the teeth that often appear during the second trimester. They aren’t cancerous, but may be caused by excess plaque that your dentist can remove.
You’ve got a nursery to decorate, diapers to buy, and a birthing plan to decide on. It is a very busy time in your life, but make the time to take care of your dental health! Contact Lerner & Lemongello in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, today. Call (561) 627-9000 to make an appointment!