Taking care of your teeth is a big part of staying healthy while expecting. Since your body goes through many hormonal changes, your gums can become more sensitive or swollen. This is why dental care during pregnancy is so critical. Many moms-to-be wonder if it’s okay to visit the dentist, and the answer is a big yes!
Keeping your mouth clean helps prevent infections and keeps both you and your baby safe. By following a few simple precautions, you can have a healthy smile throughout your pregnancy.
Getting preventive dental care in Surrey is the best way to handle “pregnancy gingivitis,” which makes gums bleed more easily. Regular cleanings are safe and help prevent plaque buildup during this time.
Is It Safe to Have Dental Work Done?
Most routine treatments are perfectly safe, but timing is everything. Dentists usually plan work based on your comfort and the baby’s development.
- The Second Trimester is Best: This is the most comfortable time for dental work. Morning sickness is usually gone, and your belly isn’t so large that sitting in the chair feels difficult.
- Handle Emergencies Fast: If you have a toothache or an infection, don’t wait. An untreated infection is riskier for you and your baby than the dental treatment itself.
- Wait on Cosmetics: Things like whitening or new veneers are best left until after the baby arrives to keep things as simple as possible.
Using X-Rays and Numbing Medicine Safely
It is natural to worry about X-rays or anaesthesia, but a dentist in Surrey uses modern tools designed with safety in mind.
- Protective Shields: If an X-ray is needed to find a problem, the team uses lead aprons to protect you and your baby.
- Safe Numbing: Local anaesthesia like lidocaine is safe. The dentist will use the smallest amount necessary to ensure you don’t feel a thing.
- Keep Us Informed: Always let your dental team know how far along you are and which prenatal vitamins you are taking. This helps them give you the best, safest care.
Helpful Habits to Use at Home
Your daily routine at home makes a huge difference. Here are some safe pregnancy dental tips to keep your enamel strong:
- Morning Sickness Care: If you get sick, don’t brush right away. Stomach acid softens enamel, and brushing can scratch it. Instead, rinse with water and baking soda to neutralise the acid.
- Watch the Sugar: Cravings are real, but try to avoid sticky candies. If you do have a sweet snack, rinse with water afterwards to help prevent sugar from sticking to your teeth.
- Don’t Skip the Floss: Since gums are extra sensitive now, flossing daily is the best way to prevent swelling and bleeding.
Why Seeing a Professional Matters
Visiting a dentist near you for a professional cleaning is important because pregnancy can sometimes cause small, harmless overgrowths on the gums. These happen because your body reacts more strongly to bacteria when your hormones are changing.
Professional cleaning removes deep plaque that a regular toothbrush can’t reach. It also gives the dentist a chance to make sure your gums stay healthy and to catch any minor problems before they become painful.
Plus, your hygienist can recommend alcohol-free mouthwashes that are gentle and safe for you to use.
A Healthy Smile for You and Your Baby
Taking care of your oral health is a great way to support your pregnancy. By staying proactive and following these precautions, you can enjoy a comfortable and safe experience.
A healthy mouth helps your whole body feel better, giving you more energy to focus on your new arrival.
At Smile 64 Clayton Dental, we love helping expectant mothers stay healthy and comfortable. Our team is here to provide gentle care and answer all your questions.
Give us a call today to book your next visit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dental health affect my baby?
Yes, some studies show that severe gum disease might be linked to early birth, so keeping your gums healthy is a great way to protect your baby.
Is it okay to get a tooth pulled?
If a tooth is badly broken or infected, it is much safer to have it pulled (usually in the second trimester) than to let an infection stay in your body.
Do prenatal vitamins help my teeth?
Yes! The calcium in your vitamins helps keep your own teeth strong while also helping your baby’s teeth and bones grow.
What if my gums bleed every time I brush?
Don’t stop brushing! Use a very soft brush and see your dentist for a cleaning to help reduce the swelling.