Pregnancy and having a newborn can be an exciting time, but it is also full of unknowns.
If you are expecting a child or already a mother, one of those unknowns might be if it is safe to get dental procedures during pregnancy or nursing?
You want good oral health, and that is better for your child. But you may also be worried that some dental treatments or medications could be harmful to your child.
At Prevent Dental Suite, we’re going to share some information with you that should clear your questions up.
Common issues during pregnancy and nursing
Gingivitis is the most common dental issue for expecting mothers. During pregnancy, the hormone progesterone spikes.
This creates more acid in the mouth that can lead to gum disease and cavities. The increased acid can reach your baby, increasing their risk of premature birth and low birth weight.
Tooth decay is another common risk of pregnancy, especially in the case of morning sickness. If morning sickness leads to vomiting, the level of acid in your mouth increases, as does the risk for tooth decay. Severe tooth decay can lead to cavities or even tooth loss.
Breastfeeding moms are at an increased risk for tooth decay if they neglect brushing and flossing or don’t stay hydrated.
Nursing moms lose up to 5 per cent of their bone mass as their children use more calcium. This can cause periodontal disease or gingivitis, which can damage the gums and cause bone loss of the jaw.
To prevent this, it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet throughout your time breastfeeding, including lots of calcium and vitamin D.
Bruxism. Many pregnant and new mothers grind their teeth, which can damage teeth, harm the jaw, and lead to TMJ. An unhealthy mom is not good for a healthy baby!
Because of these issues, you must keep up your schedule or routine visits to Prevent Dental Suite during pregnancy and after.
Dental Treatments during Pregnancy
Here are a few bits of advice:
The second trimester is the best time for routine dental procedures as fetal organ development has completed.
For the mother, nausea and vomiting may be reduced, and it should still be comfortable to lay back on a dental chair.
However, elective procedures and significant dental surgeries should be postponed until after your baby’s birth.
Be careful about X-rays. If you see a dentist regularly, X-rays can likely be put off until your baby is born.
However, if X-rays do become necessary, your dentist will use a lead apron and collar to minimise X-ray exposure to the abdomen and thyroid.
If a dental situation is dangerous? Sometimes the risks of not treating oral pain, swelling, damage, or infection outweigh the small risks associated with dental work while pregnant.
Be comfortable. Shorter appointments help prevent discomfort and pressure on the lower back. Be sure to bring headphones and music. If you find lying on your back uncomfortable, bring a pillow and ask for frequent breaks.
Seek dental treatment and have a check-up before pregnancy to avoid predictable treatment while pregnant.
Dental Medications and Nursing
If you are breastfeeding, make sure your dentist knows. Here are a few typically used medications and how they interact with breastfeeding.
- X-rays are safe for breastfeeding mothers and children.
- Novocaine (and other drugs used for local anesthesia, such as bupivacaine and lidocaine) are considered safe.
- Many medications for IV sedation and oral sedation are safe; your dentist will help you decide which is best for you.
- Nitrous oxide sedation is safe for breastfeeding mothers. Nitrous oxide is mostly insoluble while it is in your bloodstream and is gone within 3-5 minutes after you stop inhaling it. It travels from your brain to your lungs and then back into the room air after you stop breathing it in as well, so it doesn’t impact your milk.
- Some antibiotics are considered safe, but not all –this is why your dentist needs to know if you are breastfeeding.
Take care of yourself while pregnant & breastfeeding
It may be easy to slack off on brushing and flossing – after all, pregnancy and child-care come with a lot of work. But don’t do it.
Bacteria that builds up in a mom’s mouth is easily transferable to your child, as is a buildup in acid, which can lead to premature birth and low birth weight.
High-quality Dental Care at Prevent Dental Suite
Prevent Dental Suite is a group of dedicated dental professionals providing gentle and patient-oriented care. We offer the best-quality dental service from the moment patients enter our office.
Dr Shilpa Gupta is the resident dentist Kallangur combines many years’ experience with personable service. To learn more about our fantastic team, go to our team page.
Free Parking
Parking is easy and free. Parking is located at the rear of the building – access via Storey Road.
Kallangur dentist is also serving local communities in Warner, Murrumba Downs, North Lakes, Petrie, Strathpine, Lillybrook, Griffin, Mango Hill, Lawnton, Deception Bay, Narangba, North Brisbane and Brisbane.
Call us on (07) 3886 2428 or visit us at 9/1376 Anzac Ave in Kallangur.