You may be excited about embarking on the journey of parenthood. While you are pregnant, you may be setting up a nursery and doing what you can to ensure no harm comes to your baby as they are developing. However, this shouldn’t take away from your own health, especially your smile. That said, you may wonder if it’s safe to get any dental work while you are expecting, so here’s a guide on what you should know.
Is It Safe to Get Dental Work While Pregnant?
To make a long story short, it’s still safe to get oral healthcare treatments while you are pregnant. In fact, it may be more important than ever as the hormone changes that comes during this journey can increase your risk of certain dental problems, such as:
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay, especially ones related to acid from morning sickness
- Sensitive, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Bad breath
When you have a visit with your provider, be sure to let them know you are expecting and how far along you are. Doing so will help them make the necessary adjustments to ensure you and your little one stay safe.
Are There Any Dental Treatments I Shouldn’t Get While Pregnant?
Although dental work is generally considered safe at any point during pregnancy, there are a few cases where it may not be recommended. This often includes any cosmetic services or oral surgeries that aren’t needed or urgent to keep your smile healthy.
That means that regular cleanings and checkups are good to continue as planned! If you have any worries, then you can always ask your dentist and doctor about it; that way, you feel confident going to your visit.
How Can I Protect My Smile During My Pregnancy?
In the end, it’s important you take care of yourself and your smile while you are pregnant. It’s often recommended you wait until your second trimester to get dental treatment, as it’s considered to be the safest time too. The first and third trimesters are also safe, but you may have a harder time lying on your back for long periods of time.
Not only that, but you should also limit your sugar intake and eat a balanced diet. This can help promote your oral and overall health in the long run. When you go to your routine checkups and cleanings, you can also ask about bringing a small pillow to help make you more comfortable. That way, you can make sure you take care of your grin without putting you or your baby in harm’s way.
About the Author
Dr. Robert Saphner earned his dental degree at the University of Minnesota. He has over 500 hours of continuing education, which he uses to help the La Crosse community get the stronger teeth and gums they deserve. By personalizing your treatments to you, Dr. Saphner can help you feel confident about the care you need. If you are pregnant and want to see how he can accommodate you, schedule an appointment or call his office at (608) 668-6415.