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Dental procedures during pregnancy?

Dental procedures during pregnancy?

  • September 20, 2018
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Expecting mothers are always in a dilemma whether or not they should visit her dentist for any kind of dental treatment. However, preventive dental cleanings and annual examination during pregnancy are not only harmless, in fact, they are recommended.
Pregnancy is a unique period in a woman’s lifetime where her body undergoes many changes. The changes in hormone levels during pregnancy cause the gums to swell, bleed, and trap food leading to increased gum irritation.

Preventive dental procedures during pregnancy is indispensable to avoid oral infections like gum disease, which has been associated to preterm birth.

Safe & unsafe dental procedures during pregnancy

Dental work, such as cavity fillings and crowns, should be done to diminish the chances of infection. Some women may elect to avoid dental work during the first trimester considering it risky. However, there is no evidence suggesting harm to the baby for those choosing to visit the dentist during this time frame.

The second trimester is ideal for conducting any dental procedure. In third trimester, it may be very challenging to lie on your back for an prolonged period of time. However, sometimes emergency dental work, such as a root canal or tooth extraction, might become necessary. Elective treatments, such as teeth whitening and other cosmetic procedures, should be postponed until after the birth.

Avoid these dental work during pregnancy and avoid exposing the developing baby to any risks, even if they are negligible. This is to avoid the risk of premature labour.

Dental work often involves antibiotics to prevent or treat infections. Antibiotics such as penicillin, amoxicillin, and clindamycin, which are labelled category B for safety in pregnancy, may be prescribed after your procedure.

To perform many dental procedures, especially during emergencies, X-rays may become necessary. Having dental X-rays during your pregnancy is considered safe with suitable shielding.

Keep in mind for your next visit:

  • It is recommended that pregnant women have a balanced diet, brush their teeth thoroughly with an IDA-approved fluoride toothpaste twice a day, and floss daily
  • Have preventive dental examinations and cleanings during pregnancy
  • Let your dentist know you are pregnant.
  • Postpone non-emergency/elective dental work until the second trimester or after delivery, if possible
  • Maintain healthy circulation by keeping your legs uncrossed while you sit in the dentist’s chair
  • Take a pillow to help keep you and the baby more comfortable
  • Bring headphones and some favourite music to relax

 

About the Author dr-runuk.jpg
Dr. Runuk Bhandari
SRV Dental Clinic





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  •  6 years ago

    Simple and lucid.
    Pearls of wisdom.
    Well penned doctor!

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