A common misconception most mothers have is they can’t visit the dentist during their pregnancy. Bleeding gums? Wait after you have given birth to make an appointment. Toothache? Grit your teeth and bear with the pain.

The truth is, you can visit the dentist during any time of your pregnancy, in fact, you should not miss your dental check-up just because you are pregnant.

Just as your pregnancy is divided into three distinct trimesters, dental visits can also be categorized in the same manner.

First Trimester

The first trimester is considered very delicate and it is when the baby’s organs are being formed. All elective and non-urgent dental treatments should be avoided within this time. Having said that, emergency dental visits for swellings, broken fillings, toothaches, etc. can be made anytime within the nine months period. It is important that the mum to be is comfortable and as calm as can be.

Second Trimester

The second trimester is when all mothers-to-be should have at least one check-up. Any necessary and non-invasive dental treatment can be carried out within this time. Excessively bleeding gums and sometimes swellings due to hormonal changes are not uncommon during pregnancy and a check-up and simple cleaning can actually lessen the symptoms experienced.

Third Trimester

Hopefully, all potential problems have been rectified by the time the third trimester is around because, at this time, pregnant women should have as little stress as possible. An urgent dental appointment during the third trimester due to something that could have been fixed during the second would be best avoided.

Gum Disease and Premature babies

A link has been established between periodontitis (gum disease) and premature babies. Studies have shown that women with untreated gum disease are seven times more likely to have a baby which is born prematurely and born too small. It appears that periodontitis triggers the release of fluids that induce labour.

Hence, it is normal and alright to visit your dentist while pregnant. It is also recommended that all expectant mothers have at least one check-up during the second trimester.

By Dr Chin Shou King, Marketing Director, T32 Junior.

Practice Address:
One Orchard Boulevard
17th Floor
Camden Medical Centre
Singapore 248649
Tel: (65) 6733 1388
Email: t32@t32dental.com
Emergency Dental Services: (65) 6398 5578

For more info, go to t32dental.com

* * * * *

Like what you see here? Get parenting tips and stories straight to your inbox! Join our mailing list here.

Want to be heard 👂 and seen 👀 by over 100,000 parents in Singapore? We can help! Leave your contact here and we’ll be in touch.