How do dentists manage to treat pregnant patients who're too nauseated to be normal patients?

Question

I'm getting some nice dry (so far) heaves when I brush my teeth or floss.

My gums are like a lot of pregnant womens' -- sore, prone to bleeding, even itchy.

They were fine until recently; I persist with the brushing and flossing anyway, but it's a bit of a mess. I'd like to see my dentist, but what on earth is the protocol for patients who're going to retch if somebody fiddles with their teeth?

I would've thought it was nuts not that long ago, but if you mention gagging while brushing your teeth in the pregnancy section here, you'll get a dozen women saying "Oh, me too, every single time." I have no good explanation as to why.

Answer 1

They schedule your -shorter than usual- appointments in the morning, after having a slight breakfast and a good sleep even a pregnant woman is considered as normal and able to work on. First of all a common misunderstanding is that Pregnancy is not the reason for your gums to sore it is mainly the lack of hygiene, but the response of your gum when your pregnant is more severe so all your dentist will do is basic things that doesn't require too much of equipment and show you the ways to keep your mouth healthy.
About your nausea, you must trust your dentist. think of something else. By the way don't neglect your dental health because when you even have a caries in your mouth that needs to be filled, the first 3 months and the last 3 months are not suitable for most of the dental operations that might require drugs or anesthesia. They are bad for your baby what ever they say. To be completely sure that a drug is fully harmless for pregnant, there should be tests done on pregnant women. There is no such thing....

Answer 2

I had a student several years ago that was having the same problem every time she got up in the morning and any time she even smelled FOOD. I know that this sounds terrible, but it worked... I suggested that she take two tablespoons of Allpe Cider Vinegar to a cup of water and sip it. This soothed her stomach problem. She began carrying it around with her everywhere. This took care of the problem. It will also help with the Diarrea that many people get. It helps to settle the acidity in the stomach. I do not know what a dentist will do. I hope that this helps you also. Have a healthy pregnancy and a SuPeR HoLiDaY!!
Eds

Answer 3

In my practice I do have a few patients that have a very sensitive gag reflex. I treat these patients very carefully and typically you can overcome this reflex after you earn a little trust from the patient. I am curious how a toothbrush gags you? The more you get used to it the less that will happen but I hope you have been brushing prior to your pregnancy. Nonetheless, I do recommend seeing a dental professional to monitor your oral hygiene whether or not you are pregnant.

Answer 4

Change clothes alot.