Pregnant women need to take special care of their dental health, as it can have a direct impact on the health of their baby. Routine dental treatments are generally safe during the early part of the third trimester, but should be avoided in the middle and late stages. If necessary, scraping, polishing and curetting can be performed. Caries, or cavities, are small damaged areas on the surface of the teeth that pregnant women are more prone to.
It is important for obstetricians to be aware of their patients' health coverage when it comes to dental services during pregnancy, so they can refer them to the right provider. Access to dental care is closely linked to income level; poorer women are less likely to receive it. Reassuring patients that preventive, diagnostic and restorative treatments are safe during pregnancy is key. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends biannual exams and cleanings, as well as daily brushing and flossing.
The ADA also recognizes that these treatments are effective in improving and maintaining the oral health of both mother and child. Obstetricians and dentists generally agree that pregnant women should receive dental services, but many dentists are concerned about the safety of procedures and medications during pregnancy. Financial restrictions, lack of insurance coverage, lack of education, lack of access to transportation and lack of dental providers can all be obstacles to dental care for underserved people. While some studies have suggested a possible link between periodontal infection and preterm birth, there is no evidence that dental treatment during pregnancy improves outcomes. For women from a lower socioeconomic background, pregnancy provides a unique opportunity to receive dental care thanks to Medicaid insurance assistance with prenatal medical and dental coverage. It is essential for pregnant women to have regular checkups before and during pregnancy so that any dental problems can be detected and treated early.
Patients should be reassured that preventive, diagnostic and restorative treatments are safe during pregnancy.
