The Dental Anesthesia Center is available for non-emergent anesthesia and dental procedures. We have always made patient safety our number one priority. Due to the seriousness of the COVID-19 virus, several new systems have been put in place to ensure your safety that include having multiple air purification systems installed throughout the office and new social distancing guidelines for our waiting areas. We look forward to seeing you at your next dental visit and appreciate your patience during this time. To read our full COVID-19 Guidelines, please click HERE.

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How Pregnancy Impacts Oral Health

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As many as 2 out of 5 pregnant women develop gum disease and cause their gums to be swollen and tender.

During pregnancy, an expectant mother goes through many changes, beyond the baby bump and funny cravings. One of the unexpected changes she may face is changes to oral health that are not especially pleasant.

Gingivitis During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is such an exciting and also hectic time. There are so many new things to learn about your changing body and developing baby. You may need to stop eating and drinking certain things, while there are other things you need to start or keep doing that will ultimately make you and your baby as healthy as you can be.

One of the things that you must take care of while pregnant is your oral health. Pregnancy is a time when the gums are particularly vulnerable to gingivitis. As many as 2 out of 5 pregnant women develop gum disease and cause their gums to be swollen and tender. Some studies have linked pregnancy gingivitis with lower birth weights and premature delivery. Therefore, brushing and flossing are essential.

Morning Sickness and Enamel Erosion

A prevalent symptom during pregnancy is morning sickness. Caused by a rise in hormones, some women experience morning sickness throughout all parts of the day. It’s an unpleasant symptom to deal with on its own, but it can have compounding effects on your teeth, making it even more unpleasant.

While tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, it is particularly vulnerable to acid erosion. Frequent vomiting due to morning sickness puts your teeth in contact with a lot of strong acids. It can result in enamel erosion and cause oral health problems. After a bout of morning sickness, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and brush your teeth as often as you can afterward.

Nutrition and Dental Health

Eating correctly during pregnancy is essential for the health of both mom and baby. Many expecting mothers have cravings, and sugar is often the go-to food. However, pregnant or not, sugar can be damaging to oral health. Pregnant or not, eating less sugar will go a long way towards protecting your teeth and gums. Also, focusing on eating more nutritious food will help in your baby’s development.

Schedule Your Dental Appointment

Keeping up with good oral care during your pregnancy also includes your regular dental appointments. Unless your doctor says otherwise, going to the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings is not only safe but essential to your overall health.

Schedule your appointment today at The Dental Anesthesia Center. We look forward to meeting you!

Call Us Today

The Only Board Certified Dental Anesthesiologists in the State of Missouri, including the St. Louis Metro Area.

Call (314) 862-7844

Dental Care During Pregnancy – What You Should Know

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Getting a checkup during pregnancy is safe and important to your dental health.

From the moment you find out that you’re pregnant to giving birth, you are busy with trips to the doctor, hospital tours, setting up the nursery, and much more. It’s an exciting time that can also seem overwhelming. There’s so much to do in a relatively short period of time.

One thing that should be on your to-do list is visiting the dentist. Getting a checkup during pregnancy is safe and important to your dental health. You can take care of teeth cleanings and procedures such as cavity fillings before your baby is born. Your dentist can also help you with any pregnancy-related dental symptoms you may be experiencing.

Dental Care While Pregnant

You must take good care of your teeth and gums while pregnant. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing gum disease, which could affect your developing baby’s health.

There are several tips for maintaining good oral health while pregnant. Some of these tips include:

  • Tell your dentist if you are pregnant – Even if you only suspect that you are pregnant, tell your dentist. Routine and urgent dental care can be done any time during pregnancy, but all elective dental procedures should be postponed until after your baby is born. Before your dental appointment, check with your obstetrician to see about any special instructions or restrictions. Be sure to communicate any important information with your dentist.
  • Tell your dentist about medications and the dosages you’re taking – This includes prenatal vitamins prescribed by your doctor as well as any medical advice your doctor has given to you.
  • Dental X-rays are safe – If you have to have an X-ray taken while pregnant, your dentist will use extreme care, such as shielding your abdomen and thyroid. Modern technology has made X-rays much safer.
  • Don’t skip your teeth cleaning and routine exam – Having an exam during pregnancy is essential. Hormonal changes while pregnant can put you at higher risk of developing periodontal disease. Pregnancy gingivitis can also occur. This is a condition where a woman has tender gums that bleed more easily.
  • Morning sickness can make it hard to brush your teeth – Many women have a hard time brushing their teeth while pregnant because they develop a more sensitive gag reflex. Or the taste of toothpaste may make them feel nauseous. Talk to your dentist or hygienist. They can recommend a toothpaste that may be easier for you to brush with.
  • Rinse your mouth – If you experience a lot of morning sickness and often vomit, be sure to rinse your mouth with water. This will help wash away any bacteria.

Schedule Your Appointment

If you are pregnant, don’t skip your routine dental visit. Keeping your teeth healthy is an essential part of your overall health. Talk to your doctor and dentist if you have any concerns. Remember, a small issue can turn into a larger one that’s more involved to fix.

Call Us Today

The Only Board Certified Dental Anesthesiologists in the State of Missouri, including the St. Louis Metro Area.

Call (314) 862-7844