Dental Treatment
and Pregnancy

Dental treatments tailored for future parents

Planning a pregnancy? There are many things to consider when you are planning a family.

Ensuring a dental checkup, clean and any treatment required is completed prior to pregnancy will help avoid any unwanted dental complications such as decayed teeth or gum problems while you are pregnant.

Your pre-pregnancy checkup and clean helps us identify any areas that may need to be monitored whilst you are pregnant. We may take x-rays before your pregnancy rather than waiting for after as they may then be overdue. This way we have current information to refer to should we need it during your pregnancy and can identify any issues that are present now.

What you need to know about your dental visits while pregnant

Maintaining dental checkups and cleans is important while pregnant as if something emerges that requires attention, it is early on and small, rather than waiting post pregnancy where it can be bigger and more expensive to fix. Gums in particular can be affected by pregnancy hormones, and more inclined to bleed and may become inflamed, especially if your clean is overdue. If you neglect to have a regular clean during this time, and excessive plaque and tartar builds up, this in conjunction with pregnancy hormones can cause overgrowth of your gums. This is another reason why we highly recommend staying on top of your dental cleans during your pregnancy.

Common pregnancy
dental issues

Often there are other dental issues that may arise during pregnancy, such as an increase in clenching and grinding your teeth. This can cause damage and pain and is best managed by your dentist with preventative treatments such as a night guard.

Some people may also experience vomiting during their pregnancy. Whist this is uncomfortable, it can also be damaging to your teeth. Your dentist can assist you with strategies to protect your teeth if you are experiencing morning sickness. Some women find that brushing their teeth, especially their back teeth can cause gagging and then vomiting. It is very important to still brush these teeth. One of the tips your dentist will give you to help prevent gagging is to use a small soft children’s tooth brush. The smaller head makes it easier to brush and less likely to cause you to gag.

Pregnancy and
X-Rays

Being exposed to radiation from x-rays is one of the top worries individuals have about visiting the dentist while pregnant.

Modern dental x-rays use extremely low amounts of radiation, and a single dosage is typically not high enough to have any negative consequences on your baby’s development. Even though this is the case, we will generally try to avoid taking x-rays during your pregnancy unless it is an emergency.

X-rays might still be required if you have a dental emergency or severe pain to allow your dentist to successfully assess the problem and treat it appropriately.

Post Pregnancy Dentistry

This may be the time you are now due for x-rays or any treatment that was being postponed due to pregnancy eg. Crowns, Fillings, Root Canal Treatment or Teeth whitening. You also need to stay on top of your regular checkup and clean appointments now as if you have decayed teeth, or bacteria associated with gum disease you can transfer these bacteria to your baby. This is shared by transfer of saliva. Activities such as kissing, sucking on dummies, or sharing food are some of the ways your saliva can be transferred to your baby. The best strategy to prevent any problems associated with this for your baby is to ensure the number of bacteria in your mouth is low. This is greatly improved by regular cleans and regular dental checkups. It is also a good time to ask your dentist for any advice you require in regards to your baby’s dental development or any feeding issues.

Frequently asked questions

Is it ok to go to the dentist while pregnant?

It’s safe and beneficial for your dental health to have a checkup while pregnant. Your dentist can assist you with any pregnancy-related dental symptoms you may be feeling, in addition to cleanings and other procedures like cavity fillings that can be completed before to the birth of your child.

How often should you go to the dentist when pregnant?

You run a higher risk of dental decay when expecting. More often than usual, you’re snacking, and morning sickness exposes your teeth to corrosive acids. When you visit the dentist for a six-month cleaning, he or she will be on the lookout for indications of tooth decay or any other potential problems.

How can I protect my teeth during pregnancy?

Brush your teeth twice a day for 2 minutes with a soft toothbrush and floss once daily. Remember to visit your dentist for your 6 monthly checkup and clean appointment.

What dental procedures should be avoided during pregnancy?

Elective treatments such as teeth whitening, and other cosmetic procedures should be postponed until after pregnancy to avoid any unnecessary risks to you or your baby.

Is it safe to have a filling while pregnant?

Yes, it is safe to have fillings while pregnant. Your dentist will advise you if your filling should be completed during or after your pregnancy.

Why are my gums bleeding more now I am pregnant?

The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy increase your gums’ susceptibility to plaque, which can cause inflammation and bleeding. Regular daily brushing, and regular cleans with your dentist will help to alleviate these symptoms.

Dental Treatment and Pregnancy