Looking for a dentist during pregnancy can be stressful. The hormonal changes associated with pregnancy may lead to issues with oral health. Additionally, some forms of dental disease may negatively affect a developing baby. A good prenatal dentist understands the importance of the oral-systemic link and how it applies to expectant mothers.
Prenatal dentistry is available at Oak Tree Dental in Poway and the surrounding area. Our compassionate and skilled staff is here to help assist you throughout your entire pregnancy. Call us today at (858) 748-2101 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.
Dental health conditions that can form during pregnancy
During pregnancy, changes in the body can affect the teeth and gums. They can occur for various reasons, such as increased hormone levels, different eating habits, and less adherence to proper oral hygiene routines. These changes can cause some dental health conditions during pregnancy, such as:
- Gum Disease. Pregnancy gingivitis can develop into gum disease without proper treatment.
- Loose Teeth. During pregnancy, increased levels of progesterone and estrogen can temporarily loosen the bones and tissues that hold teeth in position.
- Pregnancy Gingivitis. Raised levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy increase the risk of gingivitis.
- Pregnancy Tumors. These lumps develop on the gums due to excessive amounts of plaque but are non-cancerous.
- Tooth Decay. Morning sickness or a diet that includes more sugars and carbohydrates increases the risk of pregnant women developing cavities.
- Tooth Erosion. Stomach acid from vomiting during morning sickness can wear down the tooth enamel.
“Raised levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy increase the risk of gingivitis.”
Choosing a dentist during pregnancy
Oral health is not something to neglect during pregnancy. Bad oral health during pregnancy can lead to premature delivery, low birth weight, pre-eclampsia, and a host of other health problems. Women should have a dental check-up during pregnancy and receive a non-toxic cleaning and examination.
This will reduce the risk of exposure to potentially unsafe toxins, chemicals, and allergens. We provide dental care to help women maintain their oral and overall health throughout their pregnancy through safe and minimally invasive treatments.
“Women should have a dental check-up during their pregnancy to receive a non-toxic cleaning and examination.”
Dental care measures during pregnancy
Taking proper dental care measures during pregnancy will lower the risk of dental issues that can lead to complications. Patients should notify us if they are pregnant or planning on getting pregnant. It is typically safe to receive routine dental care throughout pregnancy. Having regular dental check-ups before and during pregnancy will allow us to identify and treat any dental problems early.
Regular exams and teeth cleanings are crucial during this period to prevent gingivitis and gum disease. Pregnant women should also make sure to brush their teeth twice a day and floss at least once. Maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine during pregnancy will remove plaque and lower the risk of decay and other dental issues. Patients should also tell us about the medications and prenatal vitamins they are taking so we can alter their dental treatment plan accordingly.
“Having regular dental check-ups before and during pregnancy will allow us to identify and treat any dental problems early.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: Dental Health During Pregnancy in Poway, CA
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: Questions answered on this page
Q. What are some dental health conditions that can form during pregnancy?
Q. What should pregnant women look for in a dentist?
Q. What dental care measures should women take during pregnancy?
People also ask
Q. What should patients do if they have sensitive teeth?
Q. How can someone find out what procedures their dental insurance covers?
FAQs
Yes. According to the American Dental Association, local anesthetics are safe for pregnant mothers. Consequently, pregnant patients do not have to worry about the safety of receiving numbing medication during dental treatment.
A pregnancy tumor appears red and raw-looking. These lumps can bleed easily but will typically disappear after pregnancy. If the lumps remain after the patient's baby is born, our team can help remove them.
Yes. It is safe for pregnant patients to have an X-ray during pregnancy. While the radiation from dental X-rays is extremely low, our team will take all the necessary precautions to keep patients safe. We will cover them with a leaded apron to shield the abdomen and a leaded collar to protect the thyroid.
Pregnant women should not smoke while pregnant. Smoking adversely affects oral health, especially gums. The numerous acids and chemicals in cigarettes directly affect the mother's oral and overall health and the baby's.
Pregnancy gingivitis typically occurs during the second and eighth months of pregnancy. The symptoms of this condition will range depending on its severity. Early symptoms may appear as red and inflamed gums, while more advanced stages can result in severe swelling and bleeding.
Dental terminology
Gingivitis is the inflammation of gum tissue that results from plaque, other infections in the mouth and poor oral hygiene.
Inflammation of the soft tissue (gingiva) and abnormal loss of bone that surrounds the teeth and holds them in place.
Periodontal disease is a condition that causes inflammation of the gingival tissues and membrane of the teeth, leading to tooth loss without professional treatment.
Call us today
Proper dental care is essential for both expectant mothers and unborn babies during pregnancy. We at Oak Tree Dental may be able to help. Call us today at 858-748-2101 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.
Individual results vary. How long a treatment lasts, and how it looks and feels, depends on each patient.