Dental Care and Pregnancy
When a woman becomes pregnant, she is likely to have many questions about how to best care for herself and her child. Understandably, many women wish to err on the side of caution when it comes to avoiding any activities or treatments that could potentially threaten the health or comfort of that pregnancy. When it comes to dental care and pregnancy at her Williston practice, Dr. Lauren Shanard respects the concerns that patients may have regarding general and restorative dentistry services to strengthen and improve oral health. Dr. Shanard takes great care to ensure that all treatments offered to her pregnant patients are safe, take into account the patient’s comfort, and preserve good oral health.
THE IMPORTANCE OF DENTAL CARE DURING PREGNANCY
First, pregnant women should understand that it is safe to go to the dentist. However, be sure to tell your dentist that you are pregnant so he or she can avoid taking X-rays and delay any cosmetic treatments. Dental care is particularly important during pregnancy because it preserves good oral health and can help patients avoid oral health problems that have been linked to pregnancy. One of the greatest goals of professional dental care is the preservation of oral health and the prevention of dental complications such as tooth decay, infection, and gum disease.
Gum disease is of special concern during a woman’s pregnancy. The risk of gum disease increases during a woman’s pregnancy and several studies have linked the presence of gum disease to premature birth and low birth weights. The best way to avoid these risks is to continue to schedule routine dental exams and cleanings throughout pregnancy. This will allow Dr. Shanard to monitor oral health, diagnose any oral health problems that may arise in their earliest stages, and determine a safe and effective treatment plan, when necessary. In caring for the health of the teeth and gums, pregnant women are actually doing a great service to themselves and their growing child.
TIPS FOR DENTAL CARE DURING PREGNANCY
Even though professional dental care should be viewed as a healthy habit during pregnancy, there are some tips that patients should follow to ensure that this care remains safe and comfortable. Below are some helpful tips for women undergoing dental care during pregnancy:
- Maintain open communication with your dentist regarding your health during pregnancy
- Speak up if treatment becomes uncomfortable
- If lengthy oral treatment is necessary, ask to get up and stretch or walk around at some point during treatment
- Ask for pillows or other amenities that may improve comfort during dental appointments
- Schedule restorative dental treatments during the 2nd trimester, when possible
- Avoid elective cosmetic treatments, such as teeth whitening, while pregnant
Dr. Shanard is happy to accommodate the comfort of her patients to ensure that dental care is a pleasant experience.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
Dr. Lauren Shanard understands the benefits of professional dental care for patients and makes patient comfort and satisfaction a priority so that patients never hesitate to schedule the professional care they need. If you are looking for high quality dental care in a caring and comfortable environment, you will find it at Contemporary Dental Arts. Schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience to learn more about our comprehensive range of dental services.