Regular appointments with an obstetrician obviously become a priority, but pregnant women should also follow up with a dentist as well to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Patients are sometimes unaware that oral health can have an effect on pregnancy, but diseases of the mouth can cause problems for expectant mothers. For example, periodontal disease has been linked to pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy), pre-term births and low birth weight.
The hormonal changes associated with pregnancy can also fuel the growth of oral bacteria, leading to issues such as pregnancy gingivitis or oral tumors.
To prevent such negative outcomes, it’s important for pregnant women to seek care from a dentist.
For cleanings and other routine dental care, pregnant women need to be more precise than most patients about the timing of a visit to the dentist. Expectant mothers should avoid dental procedures during the first and third trimesters unless the issue is an emergency. If possible, women should not get x-rays during pregnancy to prevent negative effects from the radiation.
Women who are considering getting pregnant should schedule a dental cleaning and examination so that any potential problems with the teeth or gums can be treated in advance of the pregnancy.
The dentist can also make recommendations for a home oral hygiene routine that will help protect the health of a pregnant woman and her fetus. Just as with any patient, twice daily brushing and daily flossing is essential, and the dentist may also suggest an antibacterial mouthwash as an additional precaution.
Your pregnancy is an exciting time, filled with many preparations to give your baby the best start possible. Be sure that a trip to the dentist—at the right time—is on your pre-baby to-do list!
Call our North Dallas office at 972-458-2464 to schedule your appointment.