Many women preparing for a baby think only of tests and vitamins and forget the dentist. If toothache starts only once you are pregnant, the choices for treatment are narrower and there is more to worry about.
- Have a general dental check about three to six months before pregnancy so there is enough time to treat problems.
- Decay, tartar, gum inflammation and wisdom teeth that often become inflamed should be dealt with beforehand to avoid toothache during pregnancy.
- In pregnancy the gums are more prone to inflammation and bleeding because of hormonal changes.
- If you are already pregnant with toothache, tell the dentist straight away that you are pregnant.
When preparing for pregnancy, women are usually careful about gynaecological checks, supplements and tests, but few think of a dental check. In fact the gums are more prone to inflammation and bleeding in pregnancy, and if you already have decay or an inflamed wisdom tooth, it may hurt just when you are pregnant, when treatment needs more careful consideration.
Why have a dental check before pregnancy?
- Hormonal changes in pregnancy make the gums sensitive and prone to inflammation, see gum inflammation during pregnancy.
- Decay or an inflamed nerve can flare up suddenly during pregnancy.
- Infection in the mouth can affect general health.
- Some procedures should be postponed or weighed carefully in pregnancy, so it is easier to deal with them beforehand.
What should be checked and treated?
- Decay: fill early while it is shallow, and treat the root canal if it has reached the nerve.
- Tartar and gum inflammation: have tartar removed and learn how to keep the mouth very clean.
- Wisdom teeth: if they come in crooked, often become inflamed, have a gum flap or hurt, they should be examined and removal considered before pregnancy, see whether wisdom teeth need removal and when to be checked.
- Loose teeth, old fillings with gaps or chipped teeth should also be checked.
When is a good time to go?
If you are planning a pregnancy, have a general dental check about three to six months beforehand, so there is enough time to complete the necessary treatment. If you are already pregnant and have toothache, tell the dentist straight away that you are pregnant. See also whether pregnant women can have a tooth removed or filled.
When should you visit Ky Hoa Dental Clinic?
Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. You can walk in during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first. The dentist will do a general check, take an X-ray when needed and advise a treatment plan that suits your pregnancy plans.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a dental check before pregnancy?
It is advisable. A check before pregnancy lets decay, gum inflammation and wisdom teeth be dealt with, avoiding toothache just when you are pregnant.
How long before pregnancy should I have a dental check?
Ideally about three to six months beforehand so there is enough time to complete needed treatment.
Should wisdom teeth be removed before pregnancy?
If a wisdom tooth comes in crooked, often becomes inflamed or hurts, it should be examined and removal considered before pregnancy. The dentist decides after an examination.