Dr. K’s Corner: dental care during pregnancy

Dental care is important during pregnancy, as hormonal changes can increase the risk of dental disease. You can help your pregnant patients in the following ways:

• Before providing dental care, review the pregnant patient's medical history and ask about medications or supplements to help identify any potential risks or contraindications.
• Consult with the patient's obstetrician to discuss any concerns or potential risks related to dental care during pregnancy. The obstetrician can provide guidance and help determine the safest approach to dental treatment.
• Based on the patient's stage of pregnancy and medical history, you may need to modify the approach to treatment.
• Review the appropriate type and dosage of anesthesia for your pregnant patients. Local anesthesia is generally safe during pregnancy. General anesthesia should be used with caution and only when necessary.
• Pregnant patients may need to be positioned differently in the dental chair to ensure their comfort and safety. A pillow or wedge is one way to support the patient's back and reduce pressure on the abdomen.
• Reinforce proper oral hygiene and encourage pregnant patients to brush twice a day, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

Encouraging patients to continue their dental care visits during pregnancy and following the tips above can help ensure there is no disruption in their dental health maintenance.