Dental Cleanings And Pregnancy
Are Dental Cleanings Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes! Although you need to be concerned about ingesting certain substances such as alcohol and tobacco, there is no need to worry about anything used during a dental cleaning. You don’t have to fret about the use of fluoride or dental polish, as these substances are not harmful in small amounts. Beyond this, you are not actually ingesting the fluoride or other products used during a dental cleaning other than the trace amounts left in the mouth, which are harmless. The only issue you may experience while getting a dental cleaning during the third trimester of pregnancy is that you may not find it comfortable to lay on your back for the cleaning. For this reason, you may want to schedule a dental cleaning before your third trimester.
Dental examinations during pregnancy are also safe. Some people worry about the potential radiation exposure when receiving oral x-rays, but these x-rays emit low radiation and they are highly directional. If your dentist does recommend an oral x-ray, make sure to tell them you are pregnant so they can provide extra protection to shield your pelvis and abdomen as an additional safety precaution.
Why Oral Health Is So Important During Pregnancy
Not only are dental cleanings safe during pregnancy, but they are actually beneficial. When there is excess bacteria in the mouth, that bacteria is swallowed and remains in the body. Beyond this, excess bacteria in the mouth can lead to the development of periodontal disease (such as gingivitis or periodontitis) as well as abscessed teeth. An abscessed tooth can quickly become a dental emergency and if you have a toothache accompanied by a fever, you need to see emergency services right away. This can be indicative that the infection in your tooth has spread throughout your body.
Periodontal disease can affect areas of your body other than your mouth. Severe gum infections like periodontitis are suspected to be linked to inducing preterm labour. It is also suspected that several oral bacteria can be passed on to your newborn and cause oral health problems for them in the future. Dental cleanings accompanied by regular dental practices such as brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day and flossing daily can help to keep your mouth, and your baby, safe, healthy, and happy.
Dental cleanings aren’t only important during pregnancy but also throughout life. Learn more by reading The Importance Of Dental Cleanings.
Dental Cleanings From Marlborough Dental Centre
Dental cleanings are always an important part of oral health and overall health, but they are even more important during pregnancy. Keep your smile bright and your mouth healthy with dental cleanings and checkups every 6 months. To receive a cleaning and protect yourself against plaque while benefiting from the feeling of nice clean teeth, schedule a dental exam and dental cleaning at Marlborough Dental Centre. Our Calgary dental hygienists will perform an excellent cleaning and our Calgary dentists will ensure your oral health is taken care of. To schedule a cleaning at Marlborough Dental Centre, call 1-403-248-2066 or fill out the online contact form.
FAQ
Q: Will I be able to eat after my dental cleaning?
A: To get the finest results and prevent future staining, you should wait 30 minutes after a dental cleaning to eat or drink. The fluoride treatment used during a cleaning will need these 30 minutes to seal around the teeth and be fully effective.
Q: Do dental cleanings hurt?
A: Your dental cleaning should not cause you any pain. You may feel slight discomfort from holding your mouth open for a while and having your teeth worked on by your dentist. If you experience any pain, let your dentist know right away.
Q: Do I need to get x-rays done every time I visit the dentist?
A: A healthy adult with good oral hygiene will not require an x-ray every appointment. If your dentist has cause for concern, you may be required to have an x-ray done.
