Is it safe to go to the dentist when pregnant?

Pregnant women are often concerned about whether X-rays or anesthesia are safe for the baby in the womb. This is completely safe.

X-rays for pregnant women‍

The radiation dose used for a regular dental X-ray at a dental clinic is very low in modern times and is only directed at the jaw area. Therefore, it is completely safe to take X-rays with the dentist or dental hygienist. An X-ray at our clinic corresponds to the amount of radiation you receive in 30 minutes on a flight. If, for any reason, you do not wish for us to take X-rays during pregnancy, we will not do so. Of course, it’s your decision!

Anesthesia for pregnant women‍

If you have treatment needs (for example, cavities that require filling) and you need anesthesia, this is not dangerous for the fetus. We use anesthetics that are not harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Common dental health issues during pregnancy

Pregnancy gingivitis‍

Gingivitis is a type of gum inflammation that is common during pregnancy. The mucous membranes in the body become more swollen, and the gums are mucous membranes that can easily start to bleed. The most important thing you can do to prevent or counteract this is to brush your teeth twice a day, gently, and with a soft brush. It is essential to remove bacterial plaque on your teeth so that it does not negatively affect the inflammation. Remember also to remove bacterial plaque between your teeth with dental floss or interdental brushes.

Nausea, vomiting, and reflux‍

If you experience nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, your teeth are also more susceptible to acid damage. These acid damages do not go away once you have finished your pregnancy, which is why it is important to prevent this.

Tips for prevention

1. Drink or rinse your mouth with water after vomiting or consuming acidic drinks like juice and soda. Wait 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.
2. Brush gently and with a soft toothbrush.
3. Rinse with fluoride every evening (for example, a fluoride mouth rinse) so that the fluoride can sit on your teeth overnight and strengthen the enamel.

Growths in the gums‍

Occasionally, we have pregnant patients at the clinic who are worried because they have a red/purple/blue bump growing in their gums. This is usually a benign growth that occurs during pregnancy and often resolves on its own after the pregnancy. We do not remove this during pregnancy, but it can be done after childbirth if it does not go away.

Do not hesitate to contact us if you are pregnant and have questions.

Welcome to us!