According to The American Dental Association (ADA) pregnant women should have routine cleanings and exams during their pregnancy. Because your hormones rise during pregnancy it can cause the gums to swell, bleed, and therefore trap food causing irritation to your gums. Routine cleanings will help reduce problems caused by the raised hormone levels during pregnancy, including oral infections, gingivitis and periodontal disease. The ADA also recommends:

Eat a balanced diet, brush their teeth thoroughly with an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste twice a day, and floss daily.
Let your dentist know you are pregnant.
Postpone other regular dental work until the second trimester or until after delivery.
Elective procedures should be postponed until after delivery.
Help keep your circulation moving by keeping your legs uncrossed while you are sitting in the dentist’s chair.
Take a pillow to help keep you and the baby more comfortable.
Bring headphones and some favorite music.

If you find that you are having troublesome dental problems during your pregnancy, such as a toothache, you may need an x-ray. Dentists generally prefer to avoid x-rays during pregnancy, but for emergency treatment the x-ray may be necessary. The apron that your wear during x-rays should protect you and the baby from radiation, but your dentist should be able to advise you on the best course of action.

If you find out that you have to have dental work during your pregnancy, you may be concerned about the use of anesthesia and other medications. Currently, there are no studies that show adverse effects on a developing baby from routinely used medications such as Novocain or Lidocaine. The smallest amount of anesthesia needed to make you comfortable should be administered. Antibiotics are often used during or before dental work to prevent or treat infections. Penicillin and amoxicillin have both been shown to be safe during pregnancy.

What about medications used in dental work during pregnancy?
Currently, there are no studies documenting adverse effects on the developing baby from medications used during dental work. No problems have been identified when using local anesthetics such as Novocain or Lidocaine.

Posted in Pregnancy

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