Wondering if it is ok to come to see us at Sheen Dental while you are expecting a baby? You may have heard all sorts of stories about the dangers of doing so. So, let’s get to the truth of them, which is that you need to make more effort to take care of your teeth and gums while pregnant, both for your sake and for that of your unborn baby. You can safely have a variety of oral health treatments, including a scale and polish to clean your teeth, x-rays, pain medication, and local anaesthesia.
At Sheen Dental, we can help and treat you every step of the way. You need to know that it is crucial to take extra-good care of your teeth and gums while you are pregnant, because hormonal changes in your body can increase the risk of gum disease.
Pregnancy gingivitis
You may well find you get red and swollen gums, a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. It can start within two months of conception, and is caused by elevated levels of the hormone progesterone, which affects how the body responds to bacteria, increasing the amount of plaque in your mouth. Your SW14 dentist will remove the plaque and can apply fluoride treatment to protect your teeth from further decay.
It is really important to avoid sugary foods throughout your pregnancy. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly and trying to keep a healthy and balanced diet, will be beneficial for you and your baby.
Your baby’s health
If you are planning your pregnancy, come and see your SW14 dentist before becoming pregnant. This way, we can address any potential problems in advance. It is recommended to avoid dental treatments during the first trimester and second half of the third trimester of your pregnancy. But don’t worry if, during those times, you need to see us. This is a precaution. There is no evidence to suggest that dental work is prohibitive at any stage of your pregnancy. You can visit your SW14 dentist for a dental check-up at any stage, but it is advised to leave elective procedures requiring surgery, such as dental implants, until after you’ve had your baby.