Can You Get a Dental Cleaning While Pregnant?

When you are pregnant, it is natural to start thinking even more carefully about your routines, diet, the products you use, and other things that could potentially impact you or your growing baby. A common question women often ask while carrying a baby is whether it's safe to get your teeth cleaned during pregnancy. Not only are pregnant women encouraged to maintain their regularly scheduled dental visits throughout pregnancy, but many dentists encourage pregnant patients to be even more vigilant about their dental and oral care, as hormone changes during pregnancy can actually heighten the risk of gingivitis, gum disease, oral infections, and other issues. At Sweet Tooth Dental Loft, Frisco, TX dentist Dr. Camelia Cooper is dedicated to helping patients throughout all stages of life — from infancy to adulthood — and understands the unique dental care needs of pregnant patients. Keep reading for more information about the importance and safety of dental cleanings while pregnant, as well as answers to popular FAQ about dental work and pregnancy.

Should pregnant women go to the dentist?

Yes. Pregnant women should continue going to the dentist as regularly scheduled unless otherwise advised by their OB/GYN, dentist, or other healthcare providers. Maintaining your dental and oral health throughout pregnancy is just as important as other times in your life and, in some ways, may be considered even more important due to pregnant women's elevated risk of gum disease and oral infection during pregnancy. Additionally, preventing cavities and other dental problems with regular dental exams and cleanings during pregnancy can help women avoid the need for more invasive treatments and procedures that may be more uncomfortable or come with added risks for pregnant patients.

How can I make teeth cleaning during pregnancy more comfortable?

There are several factors that may make pregnant women more sensitive or uncomfortable during a dental visit than they would normally be, but these tips can help make your teeth cleaning while pregnant a more pleasant experience:

• Wear comfortable clothing
• Take breaks throughout the appointment if you need to stand up, walk, change positions, or use the restroom
• Bring a supportive pillow
• Communicate any discomfort, nausea triggers, and other information to your dentist prior to the appointment
• Consider listening to music during your appointment
• Schedule your dental cleaning during a time of day you typically feel most comfortable

Is it safe to have your teeth cleaned while pregnant?

Generally speaking, dental cleanings are considered safe and appropriate — and are encouraged — during pregnancy, as long as they are performed properly by a qualified and experienced dental professional. In some cases, the techniques, tools, technologies, or products used during a dental appointment for a pregnant woman may be modified slightly to make the treatment safer and/or more comfortable. For example, certain types of sedation dentistry may not be utilized for pregnant women. Additionally, your dentist may recommend moving your dental cleaning or other dental visits to an earlier or later time in your pregnancy based on your physical comfort, overall health, and other factors. If you have questions about the safety of dental work while pregnant, don't hesitate to call our knowledgeable team to learn more.

Can I get dental x-rays while pregnant?

For routine or nonurgent dental x-rays, Dr. Cooper may recommend deferring the imaging studies until after pregnancy. If a dental x-ray during pregnancy becomes necessary to diagnose and/or help treat a more pressing issue, modern dental x-rays can be performed using extremely low and/or no-radiation methods — like the digital x-rays offered by Dr. Cooper — and protective shields can be worn over the abdomen to minimize any risk to the patient and fetus. Again. Dr. Cooper is highly experienced at caring for patients in all stages of life, having served Frisco, TX families for over a decade, and she will help guide you through dental needs you may have during pregnancy while prioritizing the health and safety of you and your baby.

Need your teeth cleaned while pregnant? Our Frisco, TX dental team is here to help

At Sweet Tooth Dental Loft, we understand the extra sensitivity — both physically and emotionally — you may be feeling during your pregnancy, and are here to help answer any questions you may have about the safety and importance of dental cleanings and other dental procedures for pregnant women. To learn more, don't hesitate to call our convenient Frisco, TX dental office to schedule your consultation or appointment with Dr. Camelia Cooper today.