Many women fear that they should cut off their preventive dental care when they are pregnant. It’s true that x-rays are definitely not an option when a baby is gestating. Additionally, certain invasive dental procedures aren’t recommended in a prenatal state. However, pregnancy is no time to avoid the dentist completely. Pregnant women are actually at a higher risk for gum disease because of hormonal changes. Keeping your teeth healthy should remain a priority for both you and your baby, as explained by the Woodcrest dentists at Riverside Dental Group.

Prenatal Dental Health

We’ve all heard of morning sickness. However, this is really an interesting name for a pregnancy symptom many woman have all day and all night. Nausea and vomiting can occur at all hours when a woman is carrying a baby. Unfortunately, all of that talk about keeping gums and teeth healthy can seem a low priority if the act of brushing your teeth makes you physically ill. Try different toothpastes, to see if there is a flavor that is easier on you and your stomach. Be sure to rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after episodes of sickness to avoid acid erosion of tooth enamel.

Stay on Schedule

A woman who is expecting a baby has far more to focus on than cavities and gum disease. Once deep into pregnancy, it might become easy to avoid the dentist all together, however, leading to a higher likelihood of these conditions ramping up. Making a dental appointment some time shortly before you get pregnant is optimum. If at all possible to plan this far ahead, a pre-pregnancy checkup will keep you right on track. The ideal time to see your Woodcrest dentists when you are pregnant is in the second trimester, roughly between the fourth and seventh months. With the right scheduling, you can continue your dental exams every six months, without interruption.

Dental Checkups in Riverside

If you are pregnant and have concerns about your dental health, schedule an appointment with your Riverside dentists. To reach our 92504 dentist office, call (951) 689-5031. We serve patients from Riverside and nearby communities.