So.. I had my 6th month check up with my dentist today.. And I hadn't ever heard that you couldn't have your teeth cleaned in the 1st trimester of pregnancy.. So I didn't even think anything of it. As soon as the dentist sat down to start cleaning, it came up and he basically made me jump out of my chair. He wouldn't touch me until 2nd trimester. Have any of you heard this??
And then.. stupid me. Sits down in the chair and they automatically take an x-ray of my mouth.. And I didn't even speak up! It didn't even phase me, which now I am totally upset with myself about. Granted, I've read up on it and a dental x-ray has hardly any radiation in it at all, but still. How horrible is that!
It's like I don't even believe I'm pregnant, it's not real to me? I have really no symptoms, so I think I forget! Ugh! Horrible day!
Re: Dentist appt. gone wrong...
That must be your dentists policy--- but not universal. ?I just had my 6 month check up last week and I am 9 weeks. ?As a precaution they had my gargle multiple times with listerine and they couldn't use any of their ultrasonic tools. ?My doctor also knew that I was going for the cleaning. ?But really, there is no reason why you can't have a regular check up. ?In fact, as a pre-baby gift my dentist is throwing in a free cleaning in a couple months because pregnant women are at such high risk for gingivitis.?
I am a dental hygienist and with all my training I have NEVER heard that a cleaning must wait. In fact, it is more important to have multiple cleanings during pregnancy to reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth and therefore, reduce the amount of exposure to the child.
That is really weird the dentist wouldn't see you. I graduated less than two years ago and am up to date on my training, so I am totally blown away by this.
As far as the radiographs go, as long as you were covered with the lead apron you should be fine. And yes, there is very little radiation involved. In fact, you get more radiation if you hang out in the sun all day then you do from one or two x-rays.
I hope this helps!
I love it when people who are super qualified answer.
I had a cleaning done a few weeks ago - no xrays, and they knew I was pregnant. I think I've read that the worry is that the cleaning can loosen things up and you can get an infection, but I'd rather have clean teeth. I have pretty awful teeth, so I try to keep up on my cleanings. I need a lot of work done still and will probably get a root canal soon. Ugh.
BFP(4) DD2 born 2.14.13 @ 35w5d due to pPROM
It is crazy what people hear. Sometimes I wonder how old the Dentists are that say these things! And yes, the cleaning does loosen some bacteria but as long as the patient has no history of heart disease or heart surgery there is no worry.
The most important thing for moms to do is floss floss floss. This eliminates most bacteria in the mouth. Plus, with all the hormones raging the gingiva is more sensitive to the irritants, thus causing gum disease.
As far as other work, I have heard of waiting until later in the pregnancy. But this is only because of the anesthesia.
GL with your root canal! Don't worry, it sounds worse than it is. Just bring some good music and wear comfy clothes!
This. DH is a dentist, and treatment planned me the other day. No x-rays, but cleaning should be fine. Even fillings and stuff are ok, the local anesthetic they use is fine.
after anovulatory diagnosis and TTC for 1 1/2yrs with several medicated cycles and one chemical pregnancy, we have our first bundle of joy!
IT'S A GIRL!
#2 EDD 2/5/13 dx with anti-BIG E antibody, seeing a MFM
I don't take one single minute for granted.
Yay for smart people!!
ETA: not that everyone else is dumb. LOL. Her answer was very good.
Thank you sooooo much ladies! I had always heard that it was important to have good dental hygiene during pregnancy, that's why it never even phased me! Well, at least I know now. I'm sure everything will be fine.. Still, just anxious.
Again, thank you so so so much!
I know your question has been answered by I thought i would chime in anyway. I had to have a root canal done about two weeks ago and they had to take two X-rays. My OB approved it and the dentist covered me up with the led aprons.
Cole Alexander 6.9.10