You need to take good care of your teeth and gums while you’re pregnant. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that boost the risk of developing gum disease which, in turn, can affect the health of your developing baby as suggested by a general dentist in Boston, MA. In this article, we will answer the most frequently asked questions related to pregnancy and oral health.
Which Is the Best Trimester for Dental Work?
During the first trimester, all dental treatment other than cleanings and emergencies should be avoided. The majority of the fetus’s organs and organ systems develop at this phase. However, after the first trimester, the majority of formation is completed, and the remaining fetal development is mostly focused on growth and maturation.
The second trimester is the safest period to have dental treatment. During pregnancy, my primary focus is on managing any active problems including dental decay (cavities) or gum disease. As a result, I eliminate the possibility of subsequent pregnancy complications.
It is not unsafe to have dental work done during the third trimester, but the baby’s increasing girth can make laying in the dentist’s chair for any length of time quite unpleasant.
How Can Pregnancy Affect Dental Health?
Many people have no oral pain during pregnancy. However, the pressures on your body while carrying a baby might increase your chance of developing certain dental and gum diseases. Some people develop pregnant gingivitis, which causes swollen, sore gums that may bleed slightly when brushing or flossing. Higher hormone levels during pregnancy influence how your gums react to plaque, a sticky film that forms on teeth, particularly between dental cleanings.
Is It Safe to Have an X-ray During Pregnancy?
The risk of a dental X-ray affecting your baby while pregnant is quite low. In general, the advantages of diagnostic information obtained from a dental x-ray outweigh the risk of injury to the infant. However, if you have an X-ray of the abdomen area several times in a short period while pregnant, your baby may be damaged. Dental X-rays do not look below your head. However, if feasible, dentists recommend that you avoid it until you have your kid.
Is It Safe to Take Pain Relievers for A Toothache During Pregnancy?
When used as directed, paracetamol is usually regarded as safe for pregnant women. However, before taking any medicine during pregnancy, you should contact with a healthcare practitioner.