Pregnancy and dentistry?

Question

I was told that pregnant women should not go to the dentist for anything except a routine cleaning. Has anyone heard of this and can any one tell me why?

Answer 1

Thank you Nurse Annie! Being pregnant does not contraindicate going to the dentist. Any slight risk (and it is MINIMAL) from an x-ray or local anesthetic is NOTHING compared to the risk of having an infection while you are pregnant. It is probably MORE important to see the dentist when you are pregnant than when you are not.

Answer 2

There is no valid reason to avoid any dental treatment during pregnancy, including X-rays and local anaesthetics. It is more important to avoid the risk of infection or pain. Unfortunately, some ill-informed dentists stick to the old wive's tales - avoid them and find someone who is up-to-date.
However, if there was some elective treatment suggested, e.g. removal of wisdom teeth that aren't likely to cause trouble during the pregnancy, then I would discuss this with the dentist to determine the urgency. After all, you don't want to initiate unnecessary pain, and then need painkillers/antibiotics.

Answer 3

Just to add to the doc and the nurse above. Periodontal infection and low birth weight have been linked. Also, infected teeth ,while ideally extracted during the 2 trimester should be removed at any time. Only elective treatment and small decay should be delayed until after birth
Good luck

Answer 4

Pregnancy seemed to be really hard on my teeth, had lots of problems sprout up during this time, and I didn't go to the dentist....and afterwards, I regretted it. Get your teeth checked out...that little young'un is soaking up many of your nutrients, and your teeth may be getting the short end of the stick.

Also, I think it might be due to the hormones, during each of my pregnancies, a wisdom tooth decided that was the time it was going to make its appearance....go figure.

Answer 5

A pregnant woman still needs to see the dentist during pregnancy, as due to hormonal changes, some women require closer attention to gum health, as one of the things that happens during pregnancy is that the gums bleed more easily. There is no problem with routine dental care, but any type of treatments should be left until after birth- ex medications, x-rays, etc As far as teeth being pulled, you should wait until after the first trimester, or even better after the baby is born. You can read more here
http://www.dentistry.com/pbrightersmile_03.asp