5 Rules for Dental Work during Pregnancy

Not sure if you should keep your regular dentist appointment now that you’re pregnant? Need help figuring out what’s safe and what’s not at the dentist’s office if you’re pregnant?

The world becomes infinitely more complicated the moment you find out you’re pregnant. Luckily, when it comes to the dentist and pregnancy, there are 5 simple rules you can follow to keep yourself and baby happy and healthy.

1. Don’t cancel your regular appointment. Exams and cleanings are perfectly safe during pregnancy. In fact, some of the hormones produced during pregnancy tend to cause gum sensitivity, bleeding, and increased risk of gum disease, so it’s important to go to the dentist during your pregnancy to prevent infection. 
2. Tell your dentist everything. Your dentist and hygienist should know that you’re pregnant, any medications you’re taking, and any special medical advice your doctor has provided for your pregnancy. If they know the details, they’ll take better care of you!
3. Avoid x-rays if possible. Regular check-up x-rays can and should be postponed until after you have your baby. However, if you need any dental procedures during pregnancy that require an x-ray, wearing the appropriate protection will keep baby safe. The very small risk of x-ray exposure is much smaller than the risk of postponing necessary dental work. 
4. No elective dentistry. Any elective or unnecessary procedures can wait. Preventative or corrective dentistry is important to do to keep you and baby healthy, but elective procedures like whitening treatments or replacing older metal fillings are better put on hold. 
5. Be comfortable. As the baby grows, if you need to visit the dentist, bring whatever you need to be comfortable whether that’s a pillow or some tunes!

If you require a more serious procedure like a root canal, you’ll want to work with your dentist to minimize medication you receive while making sure you’re totally comfortable.

It’s important for your and baby’s health to minimize your stress by not experiencing unnecessary, excessive pain.

If you follow these easy rules, you’ll have nothing to worry about when it comes to dentistry and pregnancy. For gentle dental in Howell, Michigan during your pregnancy, give us a call. We can answer any questions you have about dental care and procedures while you’re pregnant and after baby arrives!