If you’re expecting a little one, congratulations! Although your life may be turned on its head while you await the arrival of your little one, ensuring you visit the dentist during pregnancy is essential. Visiting the dentist during pregnancy is not only safe, but it is also recommended to keep mum and baby in good health. There are a few things you should know about visiting the dentist, including what types of procedures can be carried out and which trimester is safest for your visit.
Carrying a child means big changes for your body, and this includes your teeth. Swelling can happen everywhere in your body, including your gums, which can lead to pockets below your gums where bacteria can hide and multiply. For this reason, it is recommended that you visit the dentist during pregnancy more frequently than you usually would. A trip to the dental hygienist will help you to keep your teeth clean and prevent infection.
Dental fillings during pregnancy are very simple procedures, but your dentist might want to wait until the second trimester to make this more comfortable for you. Unless it is an emergency, it’s best to wait until after the first trimester to be safe. If you require a dental filling during pregnancy after the second trimester, your dentist will likely advise you to wait until after giving birth.
It is recommended that you have treatments for tooth extraction during pregnancy rather than postponing as this can help to reduce the risk of infection. Your body will be working overtime to grow your baby, so a dental infection might be more severe during pregnancy. For this reason, your dentist will likely advise tooth extraction during pregnancy if there is no other way to save the tooth. When you have delivered the baby, you could then look into restorative options, such as dental implants.
A common problem is that women will have root canals scheduled and then find out they are pregnant. If this is the case, you should let your dentist know as soon as possible so they can advise you. Some women don’t want to have root canals while pregnant because it can be a longer procedure. Root canals while pregnant are safe, but your dentist will likely only carry out the treatment if it is an emergency. If you have a dental abscess during pregnancy, you will want to get it treated as soon as possible to prevent the infection from causing you any pain or spreading.
One of the biggest concerns dentists and patients will have during pregnancy is X-rays. Most dentists will avoid X-rays unless the patient is in pain. Although there is no risk of miscarriage due to X-rays, the radiation can damage the cells in the body, which is why it is often avoided in pregnancy. Dental X-rays don’t affect the stomach or pelvic area so the risk is even lower. However, it is often advised that women should postpone X-rays until after they have given birth, or wait until the second trimester if treatment is more urgent. It’s important to tell your dentist if you are pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant as they will be able to advise you on the best course of treatment depending on how far along you are.
If you are already having orthodontic treatment when you become pregnant, this won’t stop you from continuing the treatment. However, your dentist may advise against braces when pregnant, depending on the severity of your case. This is because lying on your back for an extended period of time may become very difficult during your third trimester, so you might not be able to keep up with your treatment. If you are unsure, you can discuss this with your dentist, but they might advise that you postpone all cosmetic dental work until after the baby is born.
There is no one rule about who can and who cannot have dental procedures done during pregnancy, so it’s important to discuss this with your dentist. Although you may be very busy, you should still make time to visit the dentist during pregnancy to keep your teeth in good health!
Mike White2024-01-29The best experience. When you step through the door you are met by the friendliest receptionist,Which continues through the practice. If you want the best dental care and treatments across the board this is where you need to go.
Charlotte Bell2023-12-15I came to dental solutions with severe anxiety of dentists and Lauren was so helpful, kind and patient with me. For the first time in years I've found a dentist who I feel comfortable with. Thank you
Gill S2023-10-27I had a wisdom tooth extracted by Gavin after having toothache due to my tooth breaking. I was nervous as I had not had a tooth removed by injection before. Gavin was reassuring, explained the procedure fully and it was over quickly with no pain. All staff at the practice are caring, friendly and professional and I have been going for many years. I highly recommend Dental Solutions.
K.WEDGE2023-09-06Thank you to Gavin and team at Dental Solutions for the superb dental work done yesterday. As well as being highly professional and very good at what they do the place has a great atmosphere which makes going to the dentist a pleasure.
tracy grensinger2023-07-02Amazing experience. I felt in safe friendly professional hands with all the team . Thank you!
Zoe Manley2023-06-30Can’t speak highly enough of this practice and in particular Lauren. 2 years ago I walked in and was so nervous I cried just as the sight of the chair. Her and the staff have been so patient and understanding and have worked with me to overcome my phobia. This week I had a filling and was absolutely fine, my family couldn’t believe it. Reception staff are lovely and really accommodating too. So glad I found them, I don’t dread the dentist anymore.
David Partridge2023-05-10A really Five Star Dental Practice! Upon arrival I was greeted by their most friendly welcoming receptionists. it seems nothing is 'too much trouble' to them. Gavin is similarly very friendly and the surgery is kitted out with the most high-tech modern equipment. On my first visit Gavin examined my teeth and explained my options to me giving me his recommendation for treatment and reasons why. Their Co-ordinator prepared a detailed quote for my treatment and went through it in detail with me, ensuring I understood everything; she had plenty of time for me as a patient. From the outset I had complete confidence in entrusting them with my dental care and the final results are truly amazing. Gavin and Richard could not have been more professional and my treatment was made as painless as possible. Dental Solutions provide a truly outstanding service and I thank them for my new 'long lost' smile and renewed confidence, especially when dining out and talking with people. I can't recommend them too highly.
Carole Dodwell2023-05-08A first class experience from start to finish. Despite being fearful of visiting the dentist, Gavin put me at ease with his gentle unhurried manner. I was surprised at how relaxed I actually felt undergoing treatment for a crown and the removal/replacement of front teeth veneers. Having felt self conscious about my front teeth for a long time, I decided to have my old veneers replaced. The results were amazing and far exceeded my expectations. What Gavin achieved was nothing short of a work of art, boosting my confidence tenfold. The practice itself is very welcoming, the customer service excellent and the staff are all very friendly and kind. I cannot recommend this dental practise highly enough.
Nick Halliwell2023-04-28I recently needed some urgent treatment and after trying a couple of dentists in the area, dental solutions were the only dentist that agreed to see me, genuinely nobody else showed any interest in helping me. The receptionist I spoke to initially was super compassionate and understanding and did all she could to get me in asap. I saw Lauren for all of my appointments, and I’ve now had: a composite filling, root canal and emax crown and just yesterday had a wisdom tooth extracted. I don't know what Lauren does but I have had zero pain or discomfort with any treatments during and after. I'm extremely happy with the results of her work. She definitely knows her stuff and filled me with the utmost confidence whilst in the chair! I literally cant find any fault with any of the experiences I have had so far. They go the extra mile and do it with a smile. What more can you ask for?! Definitely my dentist for the foreseeable future! Thank you Lauren and everyone!
Pete Taberham2023-04-07Had my initial consultation with Lauren, truly professional and extremely friendly. She explained all my options in detail and following discussions opted for veneers and can't wait to see the end result.
