Dental Visits are Essential During Pregnancy

It is important for a woman to visit a dental provider for a routine exam and dental cleaning at least once during pregnancy. The second trimester might be a more comfortable time for the mom-to-be to visit a dental provider. Make sure that you inform the dental office about your pregnancy before-hand. Before scheduling your dental appointment, be aware that your dental provider may require medical clearance from your doctor.

Safe treatment of any tooth decay or other dental problems by a professional in a timely manner is important to avoid oral infections during pregnancy. Most dental care provided by a trained dental professional is safe during pregnancy. Benefits far outweigh risks of dental care during this time.

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Swollen Gums during Pregnancy

Dental exams and cleanings are especially important during pregnancy. A common dental disease some woman may experience is “pregnancy gingivitis.” This is caused by hormonal changes and results in gums feeling more sensitive, irritable, and swollen. Women who maintain good oral hygiene and did not have any problems before getting pregnant may still experience a moderate amount of bleeding. A dental cleaning will help maintain the health of you gums.

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Dental Cleaning

A dental cleaning during pregnancy helps keep teeth and gums healthy. A regular dental cleaning is recommended for those who have healthy gums and minimal tartar buildup on their teeth, above the gum-line. A deep cleaning is recommended for patients who have gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing, and a moderate buildup of tartar above and below the gums. Make sure to keep your scheduled dental cleanings and discuss any problems with your dental provider.

After having a deep cleaning, it is important to note that more frequent cleanings are needed to maintain the gums and supporting structures of the mouth in good health. Your dental provider may suggest having dental cleanings done every 3-5 months.

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Care by Dental Professionals Other than a Dentist

A dental provider or dental professional is a licensed individual that can provide dental services to you.  A dental provider is not limited to a Dentist. There are many other types of dental providers. You might receive a preventive dental service from a Registered Dental Hygienist, a Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice, or a Dentist.

Services providers by these professionals are also not limited to a dental clinic. You might be able to receive services in your community at a school, a nursing home or a mobile dental van. A few preventive treatments include: a dental cleaning, fluoride varnish application, placement of sealants, and placement of a temporary filling. Restorative treatments can only be provided by a Dentist in a clinical or a community setting; these treatments include: permanent cavity fillings, tooth extractions, root canal therapies, etc.

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Medi-Cal Covers Dental During Pregnancy

Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is one of the most important things you can do during your pregnancy. It is also an important part of keeping your baby healthy.

The Medi-Cal Dental Program provides free or low-cost services during your pregnancy. As a Medi-Cal member, you are covered during pregnancy and 12 months after the birth of your baby.

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