Everyone knows there is A LOT to do to prepare for when a new baby is on the way. Keeping your mouth healthy while pregnant is something that should be on your list. Here are seven things you should know about your dental health when you are pregnant:
1. It is safe to visit the dentist during pregnancy.
A lot of women wonder if it is safe to visit the dentist when they are pregnant… the answer is yes and it is actually recommended to keep regular dental visits during pregnancy because the hormones can cause changes in your mouth. Most women are most comfortable during the second trimester so that may be the best time to schedule your check-up during your pregnancy.
2. Local anesthetics (Novocain) are safe.
It is perfectly safe to have necessary dental work completed while pregnant. Fillings, root canals and even having a tooth removed during pregnancy is safe if the treatment is needed. Typically elective procedures such as veneers or whitening are deferred until the baby is born. If you do need dental work during pregnancy, make sure you tell Dr. Berry or any of the other team members at Lakes Region Dental. This will allow Dr. Berry to choose local anesthetics that can safely be given to you and your baby.
3. Radiographs (x-rays) are safe.
Just like local anesthesia, x-rays are safe to have during pregnancy if they are needed in order to treat an immediate dental need such as an infected tooth. We utilize digital x-rays which are very low radiation and are safer than traditional film x-rays.
4. Pregnancy gingivitis is real.
With 4 children of her own and over 30 years in the dental field, Denise is an expert on helping you keep your gums healthy during your pregnancy. Look at her smile! :)
Your gums are more likely to become inflamed during pregnancy in part because of hormonal changes that make them more sensitive to the bacteria in plaque. Regular brushing and flossing as well as regular dental visits can help prevent pregnancy gingivitis. Consider more frequent dental cleanings during your pregnancy if your gums still bleed or are painful despite excellent oral hygiene.
5. “Pregnancy tumors” can appear on your gums.
A “pregnancy tumor” is a scary sounding name for an overgrowth on your gums that bleeds easily and has a red, raw-looking raspberry appearance. Usually these appear due to excess plaque. This is not cancer and can be removed by Dr.Berry. If you choose not to have it removed, they will usually resolve on their own after your pregnancy.
6. Morning sickness can damage tooth enamel.
Morning sickness brings acid into your mouth and damages your tooth’s enamel. Rinsing out your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in water after an episode of morning sickness will buffer the acid and help to decrease the damage.
7. Pregnancy cravings could mean more cavities.
It is normal for pregnant women to crave food high in carbohydrates such as bread, sweets, or cereal. However an increase in the amount of carbs eaten can also increase your risk for cavities. Although you are eating for two, try to avoid increasing the amount of carbs you eating. Instead focus on adding fruits, vegetables, protein and healthy fats.
There are so much going on when you are expecting a new baby, Dr. Berry and the rest of the team at Lakes Region Dental can help with any questions you have about your oral health and how to keep your mouth healthy!