A lot of women will find that they need to go to the dentist at some point in their pregnancy, and might wonder if it is something that is okay or not. Since you are supposed to go to the dentist every six months, there should be a visit scheduled somewhere within your term.
One of the biggest concerns is the use of sedatives and anesthetics like Novocain. So if you’re just going in for a basic cleaning, it should be alright, but even this raises concerns with the type of cleaning agent they use on your teeth, and whether that is something that you should have in your mouth when you are pregnant.
If you are in need of a more involved procedure, like a tooth extraction, or a root canal, it becomes even more unlikely that this would be something that you can avoid or delay, but also increases the likelihood that it is not good for your baby. These procedures will most likely involve the use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, and this is something you definitely don’t want to be given while pregnant. When you inform your dentist that you are pregnant, they will be able to suggest alternative methods of sedation.
Can I Go to the Dentist While Pregnant? Answer: Yes, It’s Recommended.
There are not a lot of reasons not to go to the dentist for your general cleaning, and it is actually something that is recommended, as more and more evidence is surfacing that it is a good thing for your baby to have your teeth properly cleaned. So if you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, and you’ve been putting it off, you owe it to yourself and your baby to get your teeth cleaned right away.
What About X-Rays?
If you inform your doctor that you are pregnant they will only take x-rays that are completely necessary, and of course you will be covered with a lead apron which will shield your stomach, and hence your baby from any errant x-rays. If you have gotten x-rays recently, such as at your last visit, they will probably not give you them at all.
The Importance of Proper Oral Hygiene
Studies are showing that plaque and tartar buildup can actually be linked to having a miscarriage, so it’s important not only to get your teeth professionally cleaned as early on in your pregnancy as possible, but keep up with good oral care throughout. This includes adding flossing to your regime if you are not very good at remembering to floss. It’s strange to think that your teeth might have an effect on the health of your baby, but everything is interconnected, even if it doesn’t seem that way.
Emergency Oral Surgery
One thing to consider is what happens when you have an emergency, and they need to use an anesthetic that you know is not good for you or your baby, but the surgery must be performed. In these instances it is hard to know what to do, since you won’t have much of a say in the matter. You’ll just have to consult with your doctor afterwards and monitor things closely to avoid any further complications. You’ll want to be extra healthy and try to avoid taking painkillers after the surgery is completed.
But it’s no use thinking about all the hypotheticals and living in fear of something that might not even happen. In all likelihood you should be fine and everything will go smoothly. If you were hoping that the answer was no you can’t go to the dentist, because you’re afraid to go to the dentist, and you thought being pregnant would be a valid excuse for delaying your next visit, we’re sorry to disappoint you.
And whether you like it or not, going to the dentist is a great idea while you’re pregnant, so don’t delay it any longer, and get in there and get those teeth cleaned properly. You know you’ll feel great afterwards, and knowing that your baby is actually benefiting from it should give you the added incentive to get over any hesitation you are having.
