If you’ve decided it’s the right time to start trying for a baby, you probably have a few things on your mind. But while you’re tossing your birth control pills or scheduling an appointment to have that IUD removed, here’s something else you’ll need to do: visit your dentist.
Many women avoid the dentist during their pregnancies. Here are eight reasons you should see your dentist before you become pregnant.
1. Your oral health could impact baby’s growth and development
There may be more at stake than bad teeth and stinky breath if you neglect to brush and floss properly. Gum disease and oral infections during pregnancy may increase risks for premature birth and babies born with low birth weight because of preterm labor or premature membrane rupturing.
Many pregnant women are also at an increased risk of tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), carbohydrate consumption may be up during pregnancy. Women may find that complications such as morning sickness, a sensitive gag reflex, or bleeding gums make it harder to brush their teeth properly. That makes it even more important to see your dentist.
2. Some dental procedures shouldn’t be performed during pregnancy
Annual exams and routine dental cleanings are perfectly safe and recommended during the course of your pregnancy. Fluctuating hormones during pregnancy can make your gums prone to swelling, bleeding, and trapping food. All of those can add up to increased gum irritation. It’s not only unpleasant, but can lead to oral infections.
Other dental work, like crowns and fillings for cavities, can also be done during pregnancy to reduce chances of infection. The second trimester is usually ideal. By then, morning sickness tends to fade and you can probably still recline comfortably. As you become bigger and move into the third trimester, it can be difficult and uncomfortable to lie on your back.
While you may find yourself in need of emergency dental work, like a tooth extraction or a root canal, procedures like teeth whitening and other cosmetic enhancements should be delayed until after your baby is born. Risks to your baby may be minimal, but the safest course of action is to avoid it altogether.
3. You don’t have to worry about the risks of X-rays
Dental X-rays don’t give off large amounts of radiation, and a lead apron would protect your baby from any potential exposure. But many dentists will avoid performing X-rays until after your baby is born, just to play it safe.
4. You’ll reduce your baby’s exposure to medications
For some dental procedures, anesthesia is used and antibiotics are prescribed to prevent or treat infections. A recent study published in The Journal of the American Dental Association found that there’s no evidence of risk of the following associated with anesthesia during dental treatment in pregnancy:
- major medical problems (including heart defects, cleft lips, or cerebral palsy)
- miscarriages
- low birth weight
- premature deliveries
But the American Pregnancy Association still recommends the least amount of anesthesia possible if you’re having a dental procedure during your pregnancy.
If you’re breast-feeding and you need a dental procedure, you’ll need to let your dentist know. Your dentist can work with your pediatrician to find medications that are safe to take while breast-feeding.
5. You’ll have more time before the baby comes than after
The truth is, your schedule will become surprisingly busy after your little one is born. Between your own physical recovery and adjusting to life with your new baby, dental appointments may be easy to push back. It’s understandable, but your oral health is important and shouldn’t be taken for granted. Squeezing in your annual exam and any necessary dental procedures before your baby comes gives you more time to be flexible after the birth.
6. You don’t have to worry about your dentist’s policies
Before you become pregnant, ask your dentist if they have a policy for treating pregnant patients. Some dentists prefer to perform only routine cleaning procedures and emergency treatments on their pregnant patients. Others have no problem filling cavities, too. It’s a good idea to see where your dentist stands before you become pregnant.
7. New moms tend to put themselves last
After a new baby, even simple things like taking the time to brush your teeth properly and regularly can slide. When your dental hygiene routine dips, you’re putting yourself at a greater risk of problems like gum disease and cavities. Try to remember the basics after your baby comes along. Be proactive before or during your pregnancy to get the big stuff handled.
8. Seeing a dentist before pregnancy eliminates concerns
See your dentist now for any dental procedures, necessary or elective. That way, you won’t have to worry about the potential risks of anesthesia, X-rays, or medications. It takes the guesswork out of the equation, so you can proceed without worry. Plus, when you do become pregnant, you’ll likely only need a cleaning to keep your gums and teeth in great shape.
Next steps
Don’t worry if you find yourself pregnant before you’ve made it to the dentist. Schedule a checkup, and be sure to inform the dental staff that you’re expecting. At home, remember to keep your teeth a priority. Brush morning and night, and don’t forget to floss!
