It is not a good practice to avoid your dentist at any point in your life. We feel you should come see us at least twice a year for routine cleanings and exams. If you are pregnant, it is important to maintain that same preventative schedule. In fact, pregnancy can exacerbate some dental conditions or create new problems.
Risk To The Baby
It is especially important for pregnant women to continue good habits of oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day and continue to floss once a day. If the gag reflex becomes too much, brush your teeth gently and slowly. If you choose to neglect these good habits and experience tooth decay and gingivitis, it is possible to have a premature delivery. In addition, intrauterine growth restriction may occur because of severe gum disease. Oral infections can also be a risk for miscarriages. Some of these conditions are more harmful than others to the baby, but they all affect the baby at some level.
If you choose to ignore a toothache during pregnancy, just know that it will not get better as time goes on. It is best to make an appointment and have your mouth checked out, even if you are pregnant. We will help you to discern the best treatment in light of you and your baby.
Give Us A Call
Please tell us if you think you might be pregnant at your exam. While many things are going on when you are pregnant, do not neglect to make your dental appointments a priority. It is important to have your teeth cleaned and checked, as some conditions can be the result of hormonal changes during pregnancy. We are here to help you have the best possible oral hygiene while being mindful of your pregnancy.