West Maitland Dentistry Blog

Pregnancy is a wonderful time for a new mom to be as well as sometimes a confusing one. With limitations on what to eat, drink and medicine to take it is no wonder that the safety of dental care during pregnancy is questioned. Most dental treatment is not only safe during pregnancy but recommended. Let’s go over some of the common dental procedures that are safe during pregnancy.

X-Rays

Dental radiographs aid in the diagnosis of oral problems, such as cavities, bone loss and infections. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecology and the American Dental Association both agree that x-rays are safe during pregnancy. Although the amount of radiation is minimal with new dental technology it is still important that you share your pregnancy with the dental staff so that proper shielding is used.

Cleanings

The change in hormone levels cause gums to be easily irritated by plaque which can lead to gingivitis. The CDC estimates that nearly 60 to 75% of pregnant patients have gingivitis. Cleanings are not only safe but recommended.  Some insurance will even cover an extra cleaning a year for pregnant patients.

Fillings

Pregnancy increases the chances of getting cavities. The consumption of more carbs as well as morning sickness make a nice acidic environment for cavities. It is important and safe to stop the progression of cavities during pregnancy. Your dentist will take in consideration though many factors such as what trimester you are in, how small the cavities are and the length of procedure.

Tooth Extractions and Root Canals

Dental infections can often lead to the need for a tooth extraction or root canal. A dental infection has serious consequences so it is necessary to stop that infection by one of the before mentioned treatments. Both procedures are safe during pregnancy but considerations of how far along the pregnancy is will be considered.  Local anesthetics are safe but it is recommended to avoid general anesthesia and oral sedation during pregnancy.

Elective Treatment

Elective treatment such as cosmetic procedures like tooth whitening should be avoided during pregnancy. Postponing such treatment prevents the minimal risks to the fetus.


Dental Anesthesia and Medications

Sometimes dental infections require antibiotics. Antibiotics that are considered safe during pregnancy include penicillins and amoxicillin. Your dentist will confer with your OB/GYN to ensure the proper medication is prescribed. Some dental anesthetics are not recommended during pregnancy. There are options that fall into Category B classification of drugs, such as the most commonly used lidocaine.

Even though dental care during pregnancy is safe, your dentist might modify your treatment based on recommendations by your physician. Dental treatment is ideal during the second trimester and early third trimester. If though you have any questions about your specific needs refer to your OB/GYN.

Teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism, is a disorder that occurs commonly when people are sleeping.  Although people often clench or grind their teeth occasionally, done for a prolonged time it can lead to severe issues.  We’re answering the most common questions that patient have about clenching and grinding.

Why Do I Grind or Clench My Teeth?

Common reasons are:

• Stress or anxiety
• Teeth that are improper aligned, also known as malocclusion
• Sleep apnea

What are some signs that I’m Grinding or Clenching my Teeth?

• Wear or chips on teeth
• Jaw pain
• Muscle pain
• Feeling popping when you open or close your mouth
• Hearing a clicking noise when you open or close your mouth
• Your mandible (lower jaw) moving to the right or left when opening or closing

Can I do permanent damage if left untreated?

Yes! If left untreated expect teeth to start wearing down. After the protective, hard enamel is worn down, the bottom layer of the tooth, the dentin is exposed. This is the soft and yellow looking layer. As well as being not aesthetically pleasing, even worse it can lead to sensitivity and more cavities.

Not only can you get permanent damage to your teeth but permanent damage to your jaw joint, the TMJ, is possible. It is important to let your dentist know if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms so that we can discuss the appropriate treatment to help prevent any long term damage!

New year, new you?  Whether it’s getting new dental insurance, fulfilling New Year’s resolutions or deciding to focus on the health of your mouth, January is a common month that we see new patients.  A lot of times these new patients have put off seeing the dentist.  What often keeps them from the chair is anxiety.  We use the term dental anxiety when it comes to patients who are anxious or afraid of the dental office.  But did you know that this is a common and manageable anxiety? So if this sounds like you, keep reading for recommendations to help your next dental appointment go smooth and stress free!

Find the right dentist for you. 

A dentist-patient relationship is special and not all dentists might be the right fit for you.  Do some research and find out what other patients interactions are with that dentist.  You can do this through their website, reviews or word of mouth.  Also, it helps to find out if the dentist has experience working on anxious patients.

Communication.

Let your dentist and staff know about your anxiety and ask questions.  Letting your dentist know can help them determine how to make you the most comfortable at your appointment.  Also remember you are in control of the appointment. So if you are feeling overwhelmed and need a break, don’t be afraid to let them know!

Drown out the noise. 

During treatments we encourage people to be relaxed and listening to your own music can help achieve this.  Especially now a days with noise cancelling headphones it makes it possible that you can completely tune out the noise.  Also, if you forget your headphones see if your dentist has any earplugs as often times we do.

Let go of any embarrassment. 

If being embarrassed of your mouth is the cause of your anxiety- please don’t be embarrassed!  As healthcare providers, not only are we used to seeing a wide range of conditions in the mouth, we also have a no judgement policy.  Not only that, we are excited to help someone get out of pain, get a healthy mouth or achieve a smile that is a source of pride.

Get comfortable. 

Some offices, such as ours, provide neck pillows and heavy blankets to help reduce the stress of being in the chair.  Our office even carries stress balls for you to hold onto to help alleviate tensions.  Most dental offices don’t mind if you bring one of your own in as well.

Zen time. 

Try controlled breathing or mediation.  Controlled breathing and meditation can calm and lower anxieties.  At your next visit try some of these out.

Look into sedation. 

If all else fails there is anti-anxiety medication, laughing gas, conscious or general sedation, to help your experience be a positive one.  Be sure to discuss with your dentist the risks and benefits of these as well as any side effects to expect.

Although it may seem daunting to make that appointment if you have dental anxiety, letting problems in your mouth go can lead to serious consequences.  Utilizing these tips can help crease a stress free and relaxing trip to the dentist.