Pregnancy presents a number of unique challenges for the health of expectant mothers. Dramatic fluctuations in hormones during pregnancy can affect nearly every aspect of a woman’s life, including her oral health. While you may view your oral health as just one more thing to worry about, taking care of your teeth and gums during pregnancy remains a vital part of maintaining your health and protecting your baby’s development.

As with most aspects of pregnancy, many women have questions about their oral health while expecting. To help you get a better idea about the potential risks your oral health faces during pregnancy, here are the answers to a few commonly asked questions.

Do Pregnant Women Lose a Tooth for Every Child?

While hormonal fluctuations can increase a woman’s risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease- the two primary causes of adult tooth loss- the idea that a woman will lose a tooth during each pregnancy is a long-standing myth.

At one time, people used to believe that a developing fetus that failed to receive enough calcium through a mother’s diet would make up any deficiency by absorbing calcium from the mother’s teeth. However, research has proven this notion false, as a woman’s bones or teeth do not become weaker during pregnancy due to fetal development.

If you practice quality oral hygiene- brushing and flossing daily- you have no greater risk of developing cavities or losing teeth while pregnant than you do at any other period of your life.

How Should Pregnant Women Take Care of the Their Oral Health?

The best practice for maintaining your oral health during pregnancy is to eat a balanced diet loaded with plenty of vitamins A, C, and D, calcium, and protein. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes a time using toothpaste that contains fluoride, and consider using a antibacterial mouthwash as part of your nightly oral hygiene regimen to destroy bacteria that contributes to the development of gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease.

Is Visiting the Dentist Safe During Pregnancy?

While opinions have varied in recent years over the dangers presented by routine dental cleanings, x-rays, and medications, a new study conducted by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has found dental visits pose no threat the health of a developing baby.

Is it Safe to Receive Dental X-rays During Pregnancy?

Yes. While exposure to radiation remains a real concern when trying to protect the health of a developing fetus, dental x-rays pose no threat during pregnancy. According to the American College of Radiology, no single diagnostic x-ray contains enough radiation to harm the health of developing embryo. This data was confirmed by the College of Obstetricians recent study as well.

Is it Safe to Take Dental Medication During Pregnancy?

While lidocaine, a commonly used anesthetic a dentist during routine dental care procedures, does pass through the placenta after administration, the drug possesses no threat to the health of a developing baby.

The Food and Drug Administration classifies a majority of prescription drugs by how large a risk they present to the health of a fetus in one of five categories: A, B, C, D and X. Drugs found in the A category are considered completely safe to the health of a fetus, while medications in the X category have known side effects and associated risks. Lidocaine, as well as any type of prescription antibiotic used by a dentist, fall into category A or B, making them safe to use.

About Author : John Nickelbottom is a freelance health writer.
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