Dental care and proper brushing is even more important when you are expecting.  Bacteria can be passed on through your blood via the umbilical cord and if your oral health is comprised due to gingivitis or decay, it can impact the health of your baby.  Preventive dental work while pregnant is essential to avoid oral infections such as gum disease, which has been linked to preterm birth.

 

Patients are advised to maintain a regular recare schedule because hormones produced during pregnancy increase blood flow to all vascular tissues including the gums. Home care is just as important because a woman’s immune system is slightly diminished during pregnancy, limiting her ability to fight infection and disease.

 

Are dental x-rays safe during pregnancy?

Studies have shown that in some cases it is more harmful to postpone necessary dental treatment than to have an x-ray or other dental procedure done.  Modern dental x-rays have very little exposure to radiation, and combined with protective lead vests, there is very little exposure to the fetus. According to the American College of Radiology, no single diagnostic x-ray has a radiation dose significant enough to cause adverse effects in a developing embryo or fetus.

 

Can I have dental work done while I’m pregnant?

While the safest course of treatment is to put off non-essential dental work until after delivery, sometimes emergency treatment such as a root canal or tooth extraction, is necessary.

 

If dental work needs to be done during pregnancy, the second trimester is ideal. Many procedures are postponed during the third trimester to avoid the risk of premature labor and prolonged time lying on your back. If you do need dental work during the third trimester, don’t lie on your back. This puts pressure on your vena cava nerve which can limit blood flow to the fetus and can make you feel dizzy or nauseas. By lying slightly twisted to the side and not lying flat on your back, you can take pressure off the nerve and still have that dental work done.

 

What about medications used in dental work during pregnancy?

Currently, there are conflicting studies about possible adverse effects on the developing baby from medications used during dental work. While Lidocaine, the anesthetic most commonly used drug for dental work, does cross the placenta after administration no real evidence has shown it does any harm to the fetus.

 

If dental work is needed, the smallest amount necessary should be given while still making you comfortable. When you are comfortable, the amount of stress on you and the baby is reduced. Also, the more relaxed you are, the easier it is for the anesthesia to work.

 

After your procedure, you may be prescribed an antibiotic. Antibiotics such as penicillin, amoxicillin, and clindamycin, are labeled safe for pregnant women and their babies.

Our Services

425 Service Icons 07
Invisalign®

Your journey to a dream smile begins with the Invisalign experts here at 425 Dental. Read more

425 Service Icons 01
Cosmetic Dentistry

Smiles matter, probably more than we realize. Volumes of research confirm the influential role of smiles on our relationships and our self-esteem. Read more

425 Service Icons 02
Sleep Apnea

We're concerned about the overall health of our patients, including their sleep health. Read more

425 Service Icons 03
Sport Dentistry & Mouthguards

Did you know that over 5 million teeth are knocked out in the US every year? Read more

425 Service Icons 04
Sealants

Our goal is for our patients to experience the least amount of dental treatment possible. Read more

425 Service Icons 05
Cleaning and Prevention

A focus on preventive dentistry helps you maintain the highest standard of oral health while limiting dental expenditures. Read more

425 Service Icons 08
Composite Fillings

Cavities and small fractures leave many teeth with defects that progress over time if untreated. Read more

425 Service Icons 09
Technology

At 425 Dental in Issaquah, WA, you'll discover dental care at the highest level possible. Read more

425 Service Icons 10
Nutrition and Oral Health

People often say to “watch what you eat” to keep a healthy body. But what you eat doesn’t just affect your physical appearance. Read more

425 Service Icons 11
Sedation Dentistry

As the mild form of sedation offered in our office, the administration of laughing gas is available to combat anxiety... Read more

425 Service Icons 12
Extractions

Despite your best efforts, teeth sometimes need to be removed to protect your health. Read more

425 Service Icons 13
Pulpotomy / Pulpectomy

Inside a tooth, under the enamel and dentin, lies the nerve, or pulp. Read more

425 Service Icons 14
Root Canals

Toothaches provide a vivid reminder that teeth aren't just inert pieces of hard tissue floating in the gums. Read more

425 Service Icons 15 1
Teeth Grinding

Under normal circumstances, your teeth should only contact for about 5 minutes each day. Read more

425 Service Icons 16
Implants

A long-lasting choice, implant-supported dentistry brings you as close to growing new teeth as possible. Read more

425 Service Icons 17 1
Gum Grafting

Good News! You don’t have to compromise on your health or your smile. Read more

425 Service Icons 18
Emergency Dental Care

Dental emergencies are never fun – or convenient. But we’re here to help in your time of need. Read more

425 Service Icons 19
Pregnancy & Dental Care

Dental care and proper brushing is even more important when you are expecting. Read more

425 Service Icons 20
Prosthodontics

An expert in treatments such as implants, crowns, cosmetics, and more, our Prosthodontist will help you address your unique needs. Read more

Request an Appointment

The first step toward achieving a beautiful, healthy smile is to schedule an appointment.