Pregnancy makes gums swell and bleed more easily and teeth more prone to problems. Expectant mothers can still be examined and treated when needed, what matters is choosing the right time and telling the dentist.
- Pregnancy makes gums swell and bleed more easily, so mouth care during pregnancy is very important.
- Pregnant women can still have fillings and extractions when needed, with the middle three months usually the more comfortable time.
- Severe pain, swelling or infection should not wait, and expectant mothers should not take medicines on their own but ask the dentist.
- Always tell the dentist you are pregnant, including before a dental X-ray.
Many expectant mothers wonder whether they should go to the dentist while pregnant. In fact looking after your mouth during pregnancy is very important, because unhealthy teeth and gums can affect your own health. This article helps mothers understand when to be seen and treated.
Why are teeth and gums more prone to problems in pregnancy?
- Hormonal changes make gums swell, redden and bleed more easily. See what is gingivitis and does it clear on its own.
- Morning sickness and frequent vomiting expose enamel to stomach acid.
- Changes in eating habits and frequent snacking make decay more likely.
Can I have a tooth filled or pulled while pregnant?
Pregnant women can still have fillings and extractions when needed. The key is that the dentist knows you are pregnant so they can choose the right approach and timing. The middle three months are usually the more comfortable time for treatment. The first and last three months are best left for cases that are truly necessary.
If you have severe pain, swelling or infection, do not wait, because untreated infection can affect you. Also do not take medicines on your own, ask your dentist.
Are dental X-rays safe in pregnancy?
Dental X-rays use a very small dose and the area imaged is far from the abdomen. When one is needed, the dentist will weigh it up and use protection. See are dental X-rays harmful and remember to tell the dentist you are pregnant.
How should expectant mothers care for their teeth?
- Brush twice a day with a soft brush and floss.
- After vomiting, rinse with clean water and wait a while before brushing so you do not wear down enamel.
- Cut down on sweets and frequent snacking.
- Have a check-up and scaling when needed. See what bleeding gums mean if your gums often bleed.
Dental care for expectant mothers at Ky Hoa
Tell the dentist how far along you are and about any conditions you have. For health insurance coverage, see the health insurance dental page. If you have an underlying condition such as diabetes, read diabetes and gum disease.
Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. You can walk in during working hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 (Zalo 082.299.3377) to ask about quieter hours first.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a wisdom tooth pulled while pregnant?
If the wisdom tooth is painful or infected it still needs dealing with and the dentist will choose the right time. If it is not urgent, you can discuss putting it off until after the birth.
Should I fill a decayed tooth during pregnancy?
Decay should be treated early because leaving it can lead to pain and infection. The middle three months of pregnancy are usually the more comfortable time.
Are dental X-rays all right during pregnancy?
Dental X-rays use a very small dose and the area imaged is far from the abdomen. When truly needed the dentist will weigh it up and use protection, so remember to say you are pregnant.
Why do gums bleed during pregnancy?
Hormonal changes make gums swell and bleed more easily. Correct brushing and scaling when needed help reduce this.