Is it possible to treat teeth during pregnancy? What about x-rays? How to protect yourself and your child? To answer the numerous questions that our editors were bombarded with, we have prepared this material.
During pregnancy, dental treatment is possible strictly in certain periods. A dentist must know the peculiarities of treatment during pregnancy so as not to harm either the mother or the fetus.
History taking
The doctor should carefully listen and examine the expectant mother. Particular attention should be paid to the presence or absence of allergic reactions and concomitant diseases. During the survey, you should find out if this is the first pregnancy, how long and how it proceeds. In some cases, it is advisable for the dentist to cooperate with the obstetrician-gynecologist who observes the patient.
X-ray examinations during pregnancy
Modern films and sensors used in X-ray rooms are highly sensitive and do not require high X-ray radiation. To ensure that the radiation does not pass through the fetus, there are special protection - lead aprons.
Despite the high degree of protection, x-rays should be avoided whenever possible. A direct contraindication is the 1st trimester of pregnancy.
Dental care during pregnancy
- First trimester
Treatment during this period of pregnancy is contraindicated. This is due to the fact that it is during the first trimester that the laying of all organs and tissues occurs. Any intervention can lead to disruption of the laying of organs and systems.
An exception may be a disease with severe pain symptoms (purulent pulpitis, acute periodontitis).
- Second trimester
A feature of this period is the increased growth of the fetus. At this stage, the desired measure is the prevention of dental diseases (professional cleaning) and the treatment of teeth at risk. If these are not available, treatment should be postponed until the postpartum period due to the high sensitivity of the fetus to drugs.
- Third trimester
Emergency manipulations are still recommended. The uterus during this period is especially sensitive to the effects of the external environment, which can provoke premature birth. The general condition of the woman in labor should also be taken into account, since during this period of pregnancy, cardiac output is reduced, which can cause loss of consciousness or a sharp drop in pressure.
Preventive measures during pregnancy
1. Preliminary sanitation of the oral cavity
The measure is necessary to avoid filling of carious cavities. This will not be difficult if the pregnancy is planned.
2. Proper oral hygiene
The basic requirements are brushing your teeth twice a day, using dental floss to clean between your teeth, using irrigators to prevent gingivitis (pregnancy is one of the main risk factors for gum disease).
3. Rational nutrition
Snacking between main meals should be avoided. Remaining food after increases the cariogenic situation of the oral cavity.
If you decide to have a baby, take care of your teeth beforehand!
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