While being pregnant is an exciting and joyous time, there are drawbacks as well, particularly in terms of one’s health. Pregnancy-related neglect frequently includes oral health. Pregnant women in Brookline, Massachusetts should pay extra attention to their dental health because pregnancy might raise the risk of some tooth problems. To protect the woman and the unborn child, handling oral issues at this time takes extra care says a dentist in Brookline, MA.

Things to Do During Pregnancy for These Common Dental Emergencies

Some dental issues can get worse with pregnancy triggering emergencies for which immediate attention is needed. A few of the dental emergencies that can happen to pregnant women are:

1. Toothaches

During pregnancy, they are commonly seen due to hormonal changes as well as increased blood flow to the gums. Should your toothache continue, this could mean there is an underlying infection or decay that requires professional intervention.

2. Gum Infections

Women who are pregnant may also have what is known as pregnancy gingivitis, wherein the gums appear red and swollen or bleed easily. Untreated gingivitis can progress to a more serious form of gum disease that may result in dental emergencies.

3. Loose Teeth

Increased estrogen and progesterone levels in the body can cause some ligaments that hold teeth into the bone to become weaker (with more movement), and one or several of your molars may show mobility. This is a problem that requires urgent consultation with the dentist to avoid tooth loss.

4. Dental Abscesses

When a cavity or gum infection is not treated, it can develop into an abscess – pus that forms due to bacteria. Dental abscesses are emergencies that require immediate attention to prevent an infection from spreading.

5. Trauma or Injury

Accidents or falls may cause fractured, broken teeth to fall teeth. Changes in balance and mobility during pregnancy mean that dental injuries may be more common.

Treatment options for pregnant women

The safety of the mother and baby is what counts most when you are talking about dental emergencies in pregnancy. The ins and outs of safe treatment options are detailed below.

1. Timing of Dental Care

Dental procedures are generally not recommended during the first trimester, whereas a sense of complete security does not come until midway through the second trimester (weeks 14 to 20). At that point, the discomfort of the third trimester hasn’t quite hit yet and your risk for miscarriage is lower. Nevertheless, dental emergencies must be treated at all stages of pregnancy.

2. X-rays

Occasionally X-rays of the teeth are needed to determine that an issue. Today, our X-rays are relatively safe compared to the early years. These protective measures, which involve using a lead apron and thyroid collar can help ensure that any potential risks to the developing baby are minimized by Brookline dentists.

3. Medications

You can take certain painkillers or antibiotics, always make sure you consult your dentist and obstetrician before taking any medication. Mild pain relief with an over-the-counter like acetaminophen has not been shown to cause any long-term effects However, stronger medications or antibiotics will be prescribed when it is deemed necessary.

4. Anesthesia

Lidocaine, another local anesthetic with a known safety record during pregnancy, is used as needed to relieve severe dental pain in our clinic. Your dentist will prescribe the lowest possible dose of pain management that is effective for an adequate level and still keeps you comfortable during a surgical procedure.

Dealing with dental emergencies during pregnancy in Brookline, MA requires protection of your teeth and prevention of danger from passing through the bloodstream into your baby. Sensible precaution is the only way to stop emergencies, so knowing some potential risks and taking action with proper oral hygiene can help.