Fact vs. Fiction
Dental Health Care for Expectant Moms
Amid thousands of books written about pregnancy, guides to expectant moms’ dental health are scarce. Plenty of myths have cropped up in that vacuum, creating uncertainty among pregnant women about whether they can seek treatment for cavities and gum disease.
pain, swelling, or other signs of infection. Also, some pregnant women find that brushing and flossing make them feel nauseous. Try brushing at times of the day when you tend to feel less nauseous or ask your dentist to recommend a mild-flavored mouthwash to use beforehand to mute the taste of the toothpaste. Expectant moms are also more likely to develop cavities, so it is important to seek treatment. Dental X-rays are generally a safe diagnostic tool. They use very small amounts of radiation, and your dentist can cover you with a protective apron. If you need a filling, local anesthesia may be permissible to numb your mouth. Make sure your dentist uses a mercury-free composite filling. Pain relievers and antibiotics may be safe, but check with your prenatal care provider first. And, of course, continue regular cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy, and ask your dentist for advice on preserving your dental health. These steps will help protect you from lasting dental problems long after your baby is born!
Bleeding gums and tooth decay can be a massive problem during pregnancy, and contrary to popular belief, seeking dental care, including local anesthetics and X-rays, can be safe as long as you first clear the treatments with your prenatal care provider. Increases in progesterone and
estrogen cause as many as 3 in 4 pregnant women to develop gingivitis, marked by redness, swelling, tenderness, and bleeding of the gums. Gingivitis is caused by plaque, a sticky film on the teeth containing bacteria. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease, an infection linked in pregnancy research to premature birth and low birth weight. Increases in plaque during pregnancy can also cause “pregnancy tumors” on the gums around and between the teeth. Expectant moms should seek treatment for PATIENT TESTIMONIALS Getting Confidence Back
“When I first came to Kinetic, I was in
constant knee and back pain. My knees always felt swollen and tight like balloons. I had tried shots but they worked the first time, but not
“Once again Kinetic helped me with my neck pain and stiffness. I really trust the therapists to help me with my pain. I have always had a positive experience while getting expert care. Thank you, Amanda! And everyone at Kinetic!”
as well the second time. Over my time working with Amanda, my pain has decreased, my knees do not feel swollen and tight all the time. I walk better. I am able to navigate stairs easier and am more flexible. Amanda has been a joy to work with and I am thankful for her efforts to help me improve.” –Audrey Long
–Linda Jahr
2 | 847-515-8970
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator