Pregnancy and Dentistry

Pregnancy can be examined in three phases:

First Trimester of Pregnancy

It is the phase in which the baby is very fragile. Unnecessary medical intervention may cause miscarriage. Radiography should be avoided. Providing that that there are cases, which necessitate medical intervention, one should not hesitate to go to the dentist. In this case, the dentist treats the patient with proper medication, which does not have any harm to the baby.

Second Trimester of Pregnancy

This phase is the safest phase in which tooth extraction, fillings, canal root treatment, which cannot be postponed until after delivery, can be treated.

Third Trimester of Pregnancy

In this phase, delivery is close. Like in the first trimester of pregnancy, medical intervention is not suggested except emergency treatment. The patients should not be left lying in supine position for a long time.

Oral and Dental Care During Pregnancy

• Before pregnancy, sufficient oral hygiene must be provided through a dentist control.
• Oral hygiene must be maintained through using toothbrush, dental floss and mouthwashes.
• Because of increased levels of progesterone and estrogen during pregnancy, gingival bleeding and infection may occur. Vitamin C supplement may be suggested.
• There may occur pathological mass called "granuloma gravidarum" in patients who do not care about oral hygiene. It usually disappears after delivery. If it continues, a mini-surgery is required.
• After vomiting, immediate tooth brushing increases erosion in teeth.