Is It Safe To Visit The Dentist While Pregnant?

If you’re an expecting mother, congratulations! Pregnancy is exciting, but it also brings a lot of health complications. You may be wondering if it’s safe to see the dentist while you’re pregnant, and have other questions about dental care and pregnancy. 

While we always recommend consulting with your OB/GYN if you have questions, the team at Cavity Patrol Pediatric Dentistry has put together answers to a few common FAQs about pregnancy and dentistry below. Read on and learn more about dental care and pregnancy.

Is It Safe To Visit The Dentist While Pregnant?

Yes. You can get essential dental care at any time during your pregnancy, including oral exams, teeth cleanings, and necessary dental work like fillings or even root canals. It’s completely safe to see the dentist while you’re pregnant, and doing so is important for your oral health.

Treatment during every trimester is safe, but the second trimester is usually the best time for care. During the third trimester, pregnant women may have a hard time leaning back in a dentist’s chair for an extended period of time.

Do I Really Need To See The Dentist While Pregnant?

Yes. Hormone changes during pregnancy and certain medications may raise your risk of periodontal disease and dry mouth. In addition, morning sickness can cause vomiting, which may damage the teeth due to acid erosion.

For these reasons, it’s very important to maintain good at-home oral hygiene and see your dentist for six-month oral exams and teeth cleanings to ensure your mouth is healthy. 

Can I Be Sedated At The Dentist While Pregnant? 

Local numbing is completely safe at the dentist. If your dentist recommends stronger sedation like nitrous oxide or a pill-based sedative, these generally are considered safe, too. However, you should discuss this with your OB/GYN to confirm that it’s safe to be sedated.

Can I Get Dental X-Rays While Pregnant?

Yes. Modern dental x-rays involve extremely low levels of radiation, and this is directed at your face. The rest of your body will be protected with a special vest. However, make sure to tell your dentist that you’re pregnant so that they can provide you with a vest that will completely cover your pelvis and abdomen and shield them from exposure.

Should I Wait To Get Elective Dental Work Until After Pregnancy? 

Essential dental work, such as a filling or a dental crown, usually should be done during your pregnancy to protect your oral health. In contrast, elective dental work like cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics can and should wait until after your pregnancy is over.

As elective treatments, these are not time-sensitive, and waiting until after your pregnancy is over will make the treatment process simpler, faster, and safer for you and your child.

Cavity Patrol Pediatric Dentistry Is Here For Your Little Ones In Cypress

At Cavity Patrol Pediatric Dentistry, we serve kids of all ages in Towne Lake, Bridgeland, Elysian, Lantana, and the Cypress areas. If you’re a new mother, we’re always standing by to see your child when they turn 1 year old, or when their first tooth comes out.

Ready to get started? Contact us online or give us a call at (832) 305-6507 to get started with Cavity Patrol Pediatric Dentistry right away. Dr. Julia and Dr. Chun are always accepting new patients, and would love the chance to meet you and your children. 

Ready to join our fantastic patient family?

schedule an appointmment today!