Things women must keep in mind when getting dental work done during pregnancy

Highlighting the same in an Instagram post, Dr Nina Mansukhani, an obstetrician and gynaecologist wrote, “Toothache? Root canal? Pregnant? The good news is you need not wait till you deliver to be treated.”

 

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A post shared by Dr Nina Mansukhani – Obstetrician Gynaecologist (@ninamansukhani) 

What dental conditions are pregnant women are risk for?

Dr Jagriti Varshney, a gynaecologist said, “There is a heightened risk of gingivitis and tooth cavities due to the hormonal changes during pregnancy. Also, during this time, since progesterone is secreted in larger amounts it may relax the esophagus. This can, in turn, lead to all the food not getting digested and as a result, reflux mechanism that leads to regurgitation of food — and hence, dental caries and other problems.”

Moreover, Dr Mansukhani mentioned that there is deficiency of fluoride, calcium, phosphorus and vitamin C during pregnancy which can worsen dental health.

So, can pregnant women get all dental work done?

Stressing that while dental procedures can be performed, certain precautions need to be taken. For instance, when using anaesthesia, Dr Mansukhani advised adding a vasoconstrictor drug, which helps in reducing the absorption of anesthetic drug and slows the transfer to baby, thus decreasing toxicity.

“Similarly, while performing x-rays, the dentist should be extremely cautious to safeguard baby by using shields to cover the abdomen and thyroid, ensuring the exposure is minimal,” Dr Varshney told indianexpress.com.

Also, for painkillers, both experts agreed that NSAID group of drugs should be used in a limited way, but avoided in third trimester. “It is better to use natural herbal concoctions of clove oil and ginger as they have no side-effects,” said Dr Varshney.

Tips to maintain oral hygiene during pregnancy, as per the expert:

*Always brush your teeth twice
*Go for regular dental check-up appointments
*Take care of any changes in gums such as bleeding
*Use an anti-microbial mouth rinse
*Change toothpaste with plant-tasting ones to prevent morning sickness
*Avoid sugary snacks

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