WHEN TO VISIT THE DENTIST DURING PREGNANCY
- Tell the Dentist As Soon As Possible
- Postpone Dental Care During Your First Trimester
- Visit the Dentist During Your Third Trimester
Tell the Dentist As Soon As Possible
Following a consistent oral health care routine is especially important for pregnant women for several reasons.
Pregnancy changes the hormones in the body that put pregnant women at increased risk for periodontal disease, which is the most severe form of gum disease. As soon as you believe you’re pregnant, tell your dentist, because it may not be safe to have X-rays during pregnancy. You should also let your dentist know if you are trying to get pregnant; knowing this can help in planning x-rays or other treatments. Be sure to tell your dentist what medicines you’re taking and if your physician has given you any specific medical advice, as it may affect the treatment he or she recommends. When possible, visit your dentist before pregnancy so you can take are of any pre-existing dental problems before you conceive.
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Postpone Dental Care During Your First Trimester
The first trimester of your pregnancy (the first 13 weeks) is the time in which most of the baby's major organs develop. If you go to the dentist during your first trimester, tell your dentist that you're pregnant and have only a checkup and routine cleaning. If possible, postpone any major dental work until after the first trimester. However, if you have a dental emergency, don't wait! Infections in the mouth can be harmful to you and your baby. See your dentist immediately, and make sure that all dental professionals who examine you are aware you're pregnant.
Visit the Dentist During Your Third Trimester
If you have postponed seeing your dentist during your first or second trimester, the third trimester is the time to have a dental checkup to ensure that your mouth is healthy. By visiting your dentist at this time, he or she will be able to advise you on what you can do to prevent oral heath problems after your baby is born.
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