Everything You Need to Know About Oral Health and Pregnancy

Are you expecting a baby? First of all, congratulations! There is nothing quite like welcoming a little one into the family. Of course, pregnant mothers have a lot to think about, including their teeth. Being pregnant has some major effects on your body; your mouth is no exception. In this blog article, our team at Sandstone Dental tells you all you need to know about looking after your oral health while pregnant.

When Should You See a Dentist?

You should make an appointment with a dentist in NW Calgary as soon as you find out you are expecting. Let your dentist know how far along you are and if you are in a high-risk pregnancy. Your dentist can assess your oral health and make an oral hygiene plan for the rest of your pregnancy.

If you are planning on becoming pregnant, it is a good idea to visit a dentist near you beforehand to look after any dental issues that may not be able to be addressed once you are pregnant.

How Does Pregnancy Affect Oral Health?

Being pregnant puts you at a higher risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral growths known as “pregnancy tumours.” All of these conditions are treatable, so if you experience any of these issues, speak to our team at Sandstone Dental to book an appointment.

You can avoid these conditions altogether by maintaining an excellent oral hygiene routine that implements the tips provided by an expert in oral hygiene near you. This includes brushing and flossing vigilantly.

How Does Your Oral Health Affect Your Baby?

If you have moderate to severe periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease, you may be at a higher risk of delivering your baby early.

Is It Possible to Get a Dental Cleaning While Pregnant?

Yes, it is possible and, in fact, an excellent idea to get dental cleanings in NW Calgary during your pregnancy. They are a great way to keep your gums and teeth healthy, which is especially important while you are carrying a child. Some dental insurance plans may cover an additional dental cleaning per year for pregnant women, so check to see if your plan offers this.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Pregnant Women?

Dental x-rays are considered to be safe for pregnant women and are a good way to detect tooth decay, bone loss, and tooth infection. Dental x-rays are not known to cause congenital disabilities, but if you have any concerns, voice them to your dentist.

Is Anesthesia Safe for Pregnant Women?

Anesthesia during the first trimester of pregnancy has been linked to early miscarriage. If you require any dental work that needs anesthesia, such as a root canal or dental filling, speak to your dentist about postponing treatment until you have reached your second trimester.

Visit Sandstone Dental

If you have recently found out that you are expecting a little one, our team at Sandstone Dental is delighted for you! We are happy to offer you a comprehensive examination to determine if you need any dental work and create a plan to protect both your oral health and your baby. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us and book your appointment today!