According to just-released guidelines by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), routine dental visits for oral hygiene, including dental x-rays, are safe during pregnancy and should not be avoided, addressing concerns that sometimes keep women from visiting the dentist during pregnancy.
Periodontal Disease Common and Serious During Pregnancy
According to some figures, about 40% of pregnant women in the US have some form of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease during pregnancy is a serious concern, because it has been associated with low birth weight, preterm birth, and stillbirth, and may increase the risk a woman will transmit cavity-causing bacteria to her baby.
Poor oral hygiene can also worsen the effects of pregnancy (including changes in saliva pH) on your teeth.
Take Care of Your Teeth During Pregnancy
ACOG went one step beyond making it clear dental visits are safe during pregnancy. They made recommendations that obstetricians and gynecologists should perform routine oral health exams during a woman’s first prenatal visit and encourage women with poor oral health to seek out a dentist. They also recommended that women should be reminded of the basics of oral hygiene, and told about the dangers that come from postponing necessary dental treatments, such as getting a filling or a root canal.
Periodontal treatment is also recommended as necessary, and has been shown to reduce a woman’s risk of preterm birth.
They also note that women who suffer from extreme vomiting during pregnancy should protect their teeth by rinsing with a baking soda and water solution after vomiting.
At Beyond Exceptional Dentistry, we encourage our patients to keep up their regular visits during pregnancy to protect your baby’s health and help you keep your teeth for a lifetime.
For more information on the latest recommendations for keeping your teeth and gums healthy during pregnancy and beyond, please contact Beyond Exceptional Dentistry in Savannah, Georgia today for an appointment.
