In the past, many dentists were hesitant to treat
pregnant patients. As a result many women did not receive timely dental care
they needed. However, dental treatment during pregnancy is typically beneficial
and there is now a shift towards continuing routine dental care during
pregnancy.
You obviously want to make all the right decisions during
your pregnancy, and it is normal to question what dental services should be
performed when you’re expecting. Dr. Howard Minkoff, the chairman of obstetrics
and gynecology at Maimonides Medical Center
in Brooklyn , believes that dental X-rays,
antibiotics, and local anesthesia are not contraindicated in treatment of
pregnant patients. And since 2006, a few state dental organizations have issued
guidelines saying that dental care is safe and effective at any stage of
pregnancy. This includes diagnostic X-rays, cavity restorations and root
canals. This is definitely a shift from what was thought in the past.
When pregnant, the risk for gingivitis (gum inflammation)
is typically a little higher because of a change in hormones. If not properly
treated, the gum disease can lead to dental infections and even tooth loss.
Just as importantly, there is evidence that a mother with active tooth decay
can spread the cavity causing bacteria to hear child and perpetuate poor oral
health.
Finally, we worry that dental pain may cause pregnant
women to self-medicate incorrectly. While physicians recommend acetaminophen
over ibuprofen for pain control, an overdose of acetaminophen can negatively
affect the liver and thus endanger the fetus. There are already enough
challenges during pregnancy, and having to deal with dental pain is one more
issue that can hopefully be avoided.
As the shift towards more routine dental care during
pregnancy continues, we understand that patients may still continue to have
concerns. When in doubt, or if you have a history of other conditions, we will
always error on the side of caution and consult with your physician. But we
believe that keeping your mouth healthy will help aid in a safe pregnancy for
you and your family.
For more questions and
answers, check out our FAQ section at www.brownandkupper.com/questions
Lee T. Brown, DDS
Brown and Kupper, DDS Inc.
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