WHY DO I NEED TO VISIT THE DENTIST DURING PREGNANCY?
While pregnant, you are at a greater risk of developing dental problems. Hormone changes within the body increase your blood flow by as much as 50%. In turn, this can leave your gums swollen, sore and prone to bleeding - making them more vulnerable to gum disease. Gum disease can develop into a serious problem if it isn't spotted. In fact, it is the number one cause of tooth loss in the UK. During a check-up, your dentist can spot the early signs of this disease, making it much easier to treat.
IS DENTAL TREATMENT SAFE IF I'M PREGNANT?
Routine dental treatment during pregnancy is perfectly safe. Your dentist may, however, avoid giving you a dental x-ray unless it is absolutely necessary.
WHAT IF I NEED A FILLING?
While there is no evidence to suggest amalgam (silver) fillings are harmful, The Department of Health advises mums to avoid these during pregnancy. Your dentist will discuss with you what other options are available.
WILL PREGNANCY DAMAGE MY TEETH?
"You lose a tooth for every child", so the saying goes. Of course, it isn't true. While being pregnant does leave you vulnerable to certain dental problems, regular visits to the dentist and a good oral care routine mean you certainly shouldn't experience anything as dramatic as tooth loss.
Did you know?
Your baby's sense of taste first starts to develop when in the womb (uterus). Even by the time you're nine weeks pregnant, your unborn baby's mouth and tongue will have formed, along with the first tiny taste buds.
CAN SMOKING AND ALCOHOL DURING PREGNANCY HARM MY CHILD'S TEETH?
Yes. Smoking and drinking during pregnancy can cause your new born baby to be underweight. Because the tooth enamel in underweight babies is often weaker, they are more likely to develop dental problems.
HOW WILL MORNING SICKNESS AFFECT MY HYGIENE ROUTINE?
Although it can be tempting, try to avoid brushing your teeth immediately after you have been sick. This rubs harmful acid from your stomach into your tooth enamel, causing your teeth to erode. Instead, rinse your mouth with a glass of water and wait an hour before brushing.
I'M PREGNANT. IS MY DENTAL CARE FREE?
Yes. If you are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months your NHS dental care is free. To claim your free dental care, ask your GP for a Maternity Exemption Certificate.
Did you know?
Your baby will start to grow their teeth from as early as the sixth week of prenatal development! The adult teeth will begin to form at around the 20th week.