Visiting a dentist during pregnancy

Tue, Jan 13, 2015

Dr Keith John

It is a common perception among pregnant females that they should refrain from visiting a dentist until after they deliver a baby.

This is just a myth, because it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene during pregnancy, as many disorders begin with poor oral hygiene.

Though routine dentist visits are safe during pregnancy and it is good to schedule a dental appointment, these visits should be restricted to minor oral procedures like tooth cleaning, dental fillings etc.{{more}}

Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters: first trimester (first, second and third month), second trimester (fourth, fifth and sixth month) and third trimester (seventh, eighth and ninth month).

The best time to see a dentist is during second trimester of pregnancy. This is because the chance of miscarriage during first trimester of pregnancy, if you undergo extensive dental procedures like dental extraction, is greater. Also, during the third trimester, dental procedures can bring anxiety in the patient, thereby causing early labour pains.

Also inform the dentist about your pregnancy.

Dr Keith John email:drkeithjohn@gmail.com