Pregnancy and dentistry

If you need to undergo dental procedures during pregnancy, be careful and make sure you are well informed. Some procedures can be dangerous for you and your baby.

• These include tooth extraction, X-rays, root canal treatment, etc.
• It is advisable to avoid X-rays during the first trimester of pregnancy, because this is when the foetus’s organs are developing.
• Tooth extraction is a very painful and stressful procedure that is not recommended during pregnancy. After extraction, bleeding may increase because blood flow in the body increases by 30-50% during pregnancy. As a result, the color of the gums may change from pale pink to bright pink (or red). Do not worry, the reason is precisely the increased blood flow. This condition can rarely cause infection, but maintain good hygiene and use mouthwash.

Visit and consult your dentist, because gum disease (bleeding and bad breath) are symptoms of premature birth.

The daily requirements for vitamins A, C, D, B, E, calcium, fluoride, zinc, iron, magnesium, and copper (found in fish, eggs, beef, pork, cheese, mashed potatoes, dried fruit, grains, etc.) are increased. Between the 7th and 10th embryonic week, the buds of the temporary teeth are formed.

• Other procedures that take longer are undesirable because you have to remain seated in the chair for a long time.

If treatment is necessary, then use the second trimester of pregnancy. Use headphones with music to relax in the chair. Sit with your legs slightly apart to maintain stable blood flow.

No dental treatment is recommended during the third trimester.

Of course, it is good to monitor the condition of your teeth and gums, but do not forget to inform your dentist every time that you are pregnant. Be careful with the antibiotics that are prescribed to you. Some of them are fine, but under no circumstances should you use tetracyclines—they can change the color of your baby’s teeth!