Dental Problems and Treatments During Pregnancy

Dental problems spare no one. Be it a small child, an octogenarian, or a pregnant woman! Pregnancy brings about a lot of changes in a woman’s body. Everyone talks about the good changes and then the stretch marks. No one tells you about the possibility of getting dental problems during pregnancy. In this article, we discuss the various dental problems and treatments during pregnancy.

Can a Pregnant Woman Visit a Dentist?

The biggest question here is, can a pregnant woman visit the dentist? Can she undergo dental treatments, or should she just wait it out and suffer in pain or discomfort until after the delivery?

Don’t worry, pregnant women can visit the dentist. They can get certain regular treatments done and that won’t harm them or the child. What about the more intensive treatments that require anaesthesia, strong medications, or involve a lot of pain? Well, you might have to wait them out unless your gynecologist and dentist say it is safe.

Signs of Dental Issues in Pregnancy

It is important to understand the signs that you are suffering from a dental problem so that you can look for a resolution by talking to your doctor and a dentist.

Here are some telltale signs that you are suffering dental issues in your pregnancy:

You observe that you are having bad breath.
Painful ulcers form in your mouth.
Your gums feel more swollen or tender than before pregnancy
Gums bleed when you brush
Your gums look shiny
Your teeth seem a little loose or wobble, causing gaps between your teeth
You are experiencing more sensitivity in your teeth when you consume something cold
Biting on something hard causes a lot of pain or pressure on your gums
These are some of the common signs that you are having a dental issue in your pregnancy. However, if you experience any other pain or discomfort in your teeth or gums, do get them checked by a dentist before they can get worse. Never ignore them or wait for them to go away on their own.

Can You Get Dental Procedures Done While Pregnant?

Some dental problems can be ignored but there are a few that cause immense pain and discomfort. You need to get them fixed right away, for your good – physically and mentally. It is perfectly safe to undergo most dental procedures when you are pregnant. This includes

Dental X-rays
Extractions
Anaesthesia
Dental Fillings
Dental Cleaning

These are regular dental procedures that do not get tricky or complicated. Dentists are well equipped to handle these procedures without any hiccups. When you are pregnant, some of the above-mentioned procedures are a necessity to maintain your oral health. Ignoring your oral health can lead to many issues in the future.

Let us now take a look at some of the common dental treatments and find out if they are safe for you during pregnancy.

Is it Safe to Get Dental X-Rays During Pregnancy?

It is best not to expose yourself to any kind of X-rays when you are pregnant. Dental X-rays are relatively safer as doctors cover you with a safety apron and collar. This will effectively shield your baby from harmful radiation. Some dentists also use a protective device to shield your abdomen region. They place this device above your abdomen and only take the X-ray. However, not all dentists might have this facility.

Can You Get Tooth Extraction While Pregnant?

Yes, as mentioned earlier, tooth extraction is safe for a pregnant woman. However, ensure your dentist is well informed about your pregnancy and knows which stage of pregnancy you are in. Also, keep your gynecologist in the loop by keeping them informed about the procedure and medications prescribed to you.

If you are planning to get your wisdom tooth extracted, it is better you wait till you deliver the baby. Most dentists will try to postpone the extraction of wisdom teeth as long as it is not causing any issues. Doctors would like to avoid unnecessary procedures during pregnancy just for caution. No one can predict how a pregnant body will react to certain medications and if after-effects can be felt. Their idea is simple – if it is not an emergency, then it can wait until after your pregnancy. It is always safer this way.

When to Extract Tooth When Pregnant?

However, if you do decide to get an extraction, it is best to get it done in your second trimester. The hormonal fluctuations and risks are relatively lesser in the second trimester, making it the optimal time for such procedures.

Is Dental Anesthesia Safe During Pregnancy?

Local anaesthesia that is restricted to a certain spot in your mouth is safe for your dental procedures. General anaesthesia that is either inhaled or injected into your blood is not safe. Dental procedures use only local anaesthesia, so it is perfectly safe. However, consult your gynaecologist before you undergo a dental procedure that requires anaesthesia. Also, keep your dentist informed about your pregnancy. In case of a reaction to the anaesthesia, they will be armed with information to take the next step. Yes, certain people can have allergic reactions to local anaesthesia.

Can You do Root Canal While Pregnant?

Generally, a root canal treatment is safe during pregnancy. One should remember pregnancy is different for everyone. Just because a friend of yours had a root canal when she was pregnant does not mean you should too. Talk to your dentist to find out if you need to do it right away. If it can wait, it is better to wait it out.

Sometimes simple cleaning and filling can solve the issue or at least control it. If this can suffice until after your pregnancy, doctors will advise doing so. The reason is that your gums could be more sensitive and bleed more than usual. A lot of blood loss and discomfort can be avoided if you are willing to wait for your pregnancy hormones to settle down.

Can You do Teeth Whitening While Pregnant?

Well, teeth whitening definitely falls under the “safe” category when it comes to pregnancy and dental treatments. However, if not necessary, then it should be postponed until after the birth of your baby.

Pregnancy can cause your gums to get weak and irritate your enamel. It can corrode your teeth faster if you are vomiting constantly. In such a case, it is not advisable to use some chemical bleach to whiten your teeth. There is not enough evidence to say this procedure is harmful during pregnancy, at the same time, there is no evidence saying it is safe either. Since many medical procedures cannot be “tested” on pregnant women, such data is very limited.

Is Orthodontic Treatment Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes, it is perfectly safe during pregnancy. You can go right ahead with those braces when you are pregnant and get your teeth in line before the little one arrives. Keep your dentist informed about your pregnancy so that they can prescribe medicines accordingly.

The only minor issue you might face is while eating. Since you are pregnant, you need to eat healthily and ensure you chew your food well. With braces, you might find it tricky to eat certain foods and the doctor will ask you to avoid certain foods.

Are Dental Medications Safe During Pregnancy?

Some medicines like pain relievers and certain antibiotics are safe. If you are suffering from severe pain or gum issues, you need medication. You cannot suffer till the end of the pregnancy. Let your dentist know you are pregnant and how far along you are in the pregnancy. Based on these details they will prescribe safe medicines.

It is always a good idea to double-check with your gynaecologist before you consume any medicine. Just keep them informed so that in case of any allergies or side effects, they can connect the dots.

[Read : Antibiotics During Pregnancy – Is It Safe?]

Dental Hygiene Routine During Pregnancy

Here is something you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy during your pregnancy. A simple as given below can help you protect them from pregnancy hormones

Brush your teeth twice a day.
If your gums are sore and bleeding, switch to a softer brush.
Avoid poking or nudging your gums.
Avoid sugary foods if possible.
Eat a well-balanced meal.
Use ADA approved products.
Visit your dentist regularly if you are having dental issues due to pregnancy.
If you are suffering from morning sickness, ask your dentist to prescribe something to keep your teeth safe.

[Read : Oral Care Tips During Pregnancy]

When Should You Consider Visiting a Dentist?

It is best to see your dentist if you are experiencing any dental issues while pregnant. It could be nothing, but getting it professionally verified is always safer when pregnant. Be it sore gums, bleeding gums, loose teeth, or just a deep cavity. If it is new and has cropped up only during pregnancy, then it is most likely triggered by your pregnancy. Your doctor should know about it so that they can prescribe tests and treatments or medications accordingly.

When it comes to dental treatments, they are mostly safe. However, if they can be postponed, then please do so, when you are pregnant. If there is no reason to undergo a medical procedure when you are pregnant, it is best to avoid it.

FAQ’s

1. Can I Get a Dental Filling When Pregnant?

Yes, you can. dental fillings are a non-invasive procedure. They won’t cause you or your baby any harm.

2. Can I Wear Braces While Pregnant?

Yes, you can. If your braces are causing more pressure on your sensitive gums, let your dentist know. If the wires are causing any nicks or cuts inside your mouth, get them adjusted as soon as possible.

3. Is an Invisalign Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes, you can wear your aligners even through your pregnancy. If your scans and X-rays are completed before conception, it is completely safe. If you are planning to get new aligners, do wait till your delivery.

Dental Problems and Treatments During Pregnancy

Can a Pregnant Woman Visit a Dentist?

Signs of Dental Issues in Pregnancy

Top 6 Common Dental Problems in Pregnancy

1. Gingivitis

2. Loose teeth

3. Cavities

4. Wisdom Tooth

5. Pyogenic Tumor

6. Enamel Erosion