IS IT SAFE TO GO TO THE DENTIST WHILE PREGNANT???

The answer is YES, it is absolutely safe to go to the dentist when you are pregnant.  In fact, the American Dental Association issues special brochures pointing out the importance of dental care during pregnancy.  Scientific evidence suggests that being pregnant does affect the condition of your teeth and does make a woman more prone to gum infections while pregnant.    Any previous untreated tooth trouble is more likely to flare up when you are pregnant.

A visit to your dentist early in your pregnancy could save you a toothache for later, as long as your follow their recommendations.  Any necessary extractions can be accomplished under a local anesthetic.  Make sure to tell your dentist that you are pregnant so that he/she can take special precautions if your teeth need to be X-rayed.

Good eating habits along with your vitamins, calcium, and other supplements will also help your teeth and gums.

Be sure to brush your teeth 2 to 3 times a day.  Floss regularly and use mouth wash at least twice a day.  I recommend the green Listerine.  Start out with leaving it in your mouth for about 10 seconds and work up to 30 seconds.  This will make a world of difference in either helping your swollen and bleeding gums, or preventing your gums from getting to the point of bleeding and swelling.  My dental hygienist told me to do this during my 2nd pregnancy, and it made a world of difference.  I have followed that advice with every subsequent pregnancy.