Unfortunately, being pregnant does not shield you from everyday health concerns, and tooth pain in pregnancy is not uncommon. You must continue to visit the dentist during your pregnancy because your oral condition could change during pregnancy. Changes in hormonal levels can, in fact, cause swelling and irritation to the gums, which can put you at higher risk of gum disease or infection.
Whether you have an emergency dentist appointment or your routine check-up, you must attend, because many dental issues that arise during pregnancy are in fact preventable.
Let’s talk about visiting the dentist while pregnant: what is safe and what treatments you will need to avoid. It is important to remember to let your dentist know about your pregnancy when you visit your next appointment, as they may adjust their advice or be able to offer more tips for conditions.
What Dental Procedures Are Safe During Pregnancy?
Many patients wonder whether they can opt for dental treatment during pregnancy. In most cases, routine and necessary dental treatments are considered safe during pregnancy and may even help prevent more serious oral health problems.
Dental procedures that are commonly considered safe during pregnancy include:
- Dental check-ups and hygiene appointments
- Fillings
- Dental crowns
- Root canal treatment
- Tooth extractions when clinically necessary
- Dental X-rays, when appropriate precautions are taken
If you are wondering, "Can you get a crown while pregnant?", the answer is generally yes. Dentists often recommend treating dental problems promptly to reduce the risk of pain, infection, or further complications. However, the timing of treatment may vary depending on the stage of pregnancy and your individual circumstances.
What Dental Treatments Should You Avoid During Pregnancy?
This is typically an easy answer: you should avoid any elective, cosmetic treatment. This is to avoid any dangers of dental work during pregnancy, whether it because you stress or simply because it would expose the baby to unsafe chemicals. Elective cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening are generally not recommended during pregnancy and are often postponed until birth of the child.
It is important to remain calm during pregnancy and not to put too much stress on yourself, so be sure to talk through your comfort levels with your dentist. For those who are nervous when visiting the dentist, be sure to communicate this, as it will make your experience much easier.
Remember, if you’re worried about your oral health during pregnancy, speak to your dentist. It is important to get the right care and the right information. If you have not already got a dentist, you can simply do a Google search for ‘dentist near me’, do a little research on your options, and then get yourself booked in.
We hope this has shed some light on common treatments at the dentist and pregnancy!
FAQs
Can I Get Dental Work While Pregnant?
Yes. Many routine and necessary dental treatments, including check-ups, fillings, crowns, and root canal treatment, are considered safe during pregnancy. Always inform your dentist that you are pregnant before treatment.
What Dental Procedures Are Safe During Pregnancy?
Dental examinations, professional cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canal treatment, extractions when necessary, and dental X-rays with appropriate precautions are generally considered safe during pregnancy.
Can You Get a Crown While Pregnant?
Yes. Dental crowns are commonly provided during pregnancy when required to protect a damaged tooth or prevent further complications.
Should I Avoid Going to the Dentist While Pregnant?
No. Maintaining good oral health during pregnancy is important, and regular dental visits can help prevent problems such as gum disease and infection.