As an expecting mother, having questions about maintaining oral health while pregnant is considered perfectly natural. At Romans Soltani Dentistry, we’re here to help address your concerns about your oral health and how it impacts your pregnancy. In this article, we’re here to clear up some ideas about how to care for your oral health, including what treatments you can receive and how to care for your teeth while pregnant.
What Type of Dentistry Can Be Done While Pregnant?
Knowing when to see a dentist while pregnant can be confusing, and when you’re pregnant, significant hormonal changes occur, causing your body to become more sensitive to taste, smells, and bacteria. Depending on the details of your pregnancy, women who face complications with their pregnancies may be even more cautious with their dental treatments. However, it’s important to get dental treatment if needed, as untreated teeth can cause further issues for you and your growing baby.
So, what kind of treatments can you get while pregnant? Here’s what we recommend to help you care for your teeth:
- Preventative Cleanings and Follow-Up Exams: Getting your preventative cleanings and follow-up exams are essential for caring for your teeth. These sessions can help you avoid possible infections in your mouth and help you keep track of any signs of hormonal problems that can contribute to cavities, gum disease, and dry mouth.
- Restorative Treatments: When it comes to restorative treatments, these treatments should be performed to help correct problems related to infection or decay as long as there’s a reduced chance of infection. During your pregnancy, it’s recommended to have restorative treatments performed during your second trimester.
- Emergency Dental Care: Emergency dental care is recommended, as broken, infected, and traumatized teeth require immediate treatment to help avoid spreading infection.
- Getting X-Rays and Diagnostics: If you require X-rays and other diagnostic equipment for your treatment, it’s essential to know that X-rays can be a safe, appropriate way to diagnose and treat dental conditions. According to the ADA and ACOG, no diagnostic X-ray will produce a significant enough effect to cause problems with the developing embryo or fetus. However, if you do not need an X-ray, then you can postpone your X-rays until after your delivery.
- Elective Procedures: Elective procedures, such as teeth whitening, should be postponed until after delivery to avoid potential risks.
- Pain Medications: When faced with the onset of an infection, sometimes medications are necessary. In these cases, your dentist will provide anesthesia to help you stay comfortable and will provide antibiotics labeled safe for pregnancy, such as penicillin, amoxicillin, and clindamycin.
Visit Romans Soltani Dentistry For a Comprehensive Evaluation
For expecting mothers, taking care of your smile is essential for you and your growing baby. At Romans Soltani Dentistry, our experienced dental team is well-versed in providing safe and compassionate dental care during pregnancy. Whether you need routine check-ups or cleanings or have specific dental concerns, we are here to support you. Contact us today by calling (315) 487-1545 to schedule an appointment at our location in Camillus, NY, and ensure that your dental health remains in excellent condition throughout your pregnancy journey.