You and your unborn child’s entire health depend on having a healthy mouth. Proper preventative care, which includes both professional dental visits and at-home self-care, is essential to maintaining good oral health.

Professional dental care is more essential than ever because pregnancy might actually make some dental issues worse.

Regular dental exams and cleanings are not only safe but strongly advised throughout pregnancy. You may benefit from visiting your dentist more frequently than usual because you are more likely to develop gum disease when pregnant. The majority of United Concordia plans offer additional protection to members while they are expecting.

Tell your dentist pertinent information, such as how far along you are and whether your pregnancy is considered high-risk. Also let him or her know if your mouth goes through any other changes or develops any new symptoms.

When at all possible, try to steer clear of X-rays while pregnant, especially in the first trimester. They are nevertheless important in specific circumstances, such as a dental emergency, for accurate diagnosis. To reduce radiation exposure to your abdomen, you should wear a lead apron. Always discuss the pros and cons of X-rays with your dentist, as well as what is best for you personally.

Preventive dental care begins at home, whether during pregnancy or at any other time in life. Consult your dentist about proper dental hygiene practises, or read our advice on maintaining and preventing oral health.