Dental Care in Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Are you unsure about visiting a dentist in Brewster, NY while pregnant? Here's what you need to know about dental care and pregnancy.

During pregnancy, women are expected to take steps to maintain their health and the health of their unborn child. Protecting oral health should be part of those practices. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to oral health problems like pregnancy gingivitis. 

Most dental treatments like Invisalign Brewster NY can still be undertaken during pregnancy. You will likely have to wait to undergo dental implants Brewster NY and cosmetic dentistry Brewster NY until your pregnancy ends. 



We enjoy helping our patients understand how dental care changes during pregnancy. Your dentist Brewster NY offers this overview of steps you should take to maintain the benefits of general dentistry Brewster NY. 

Morning Sickness and When to See Your Dentist Brewster NY

Morning sickness is common in pregnancy. Every woman experiences symptoms differently. 

One symptom of morning sickness is acid reflux. Heartburn or vomiting brings strong gastric acids to your teeth, which can erode your enamel over time. 

It may be tempting to simply brush your teeth after each instance of acid reflux. One simple remedy is to swish your mouth with baking soda and water. Baking soda is a base, meaning it chemically neutralizes stomach acid. 



If you experience significant bouts of acid reflux, contact your dentist in Brewster NY so we can schedule a time for you to speak to one of our dentists. 

Floss Daily

Like your dentist always says, you should floss every day! Floss is designed to scrape damaging plaque away from the gum line and from between the teeth. Floss is the best way to get the bacteria and plaque out from your gum line.

Flossing should be done daily but is even better if it can be done twice a day. Flossing can be a difficult task, especially if it's not something you're used to doing regularly. Here are three important things to keep in mind when flossing your teeth:

• Choose the right kind of floss
• Use the correct flossing technique
• Be consistent



Read more about these flossing tips from your dentist in Brewster, NY to help make flossing part of your daily routine.

Gum Disease and Pregnancy

As your dentist 10509 regularly tells you, gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss and other serious dental problems. Fighting gum disease requires vigilance even under ideal conditions. That's why our dentists look for signs of gum disease during annual check-ups and cleanings. 

The hormonal fluctuations caused by pregnancy often increase the risk of developing gingivitis. Symptoms of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, include swollen gums that are prone to bleeding. 



If you already have gingivitis, pregnancy can lead to more advanced stages of gum disease. During your pregnancy, track your gums and schedule regular visits to see your dentist in 10509.

Pregnancy and Fluoride

Speak with our family dentist Brewster NY for specific advice, but new guidance from the JAMA Network suggests that mothers should be cautious about using fluoride products during their pregnancy.

The study found a potential link between fluoride use and neurological effects. Taking a nine-month pause from fluoride products will not likely have long-term negative effects on your teeth. Maintain good oral hygiene habits like brushing twice a day, flossing, and using a therapeutic mouthwash.

The Importance of Maintaining Visits for General Dentistry Brewster NY

Dental treatments may still be needed during pregnancy. Treating cavities and gum disease can prevent more serious infections. Infections could be dangerous for both the mother and the unborn child.

Emergency Dentistry During Pregnancy 

If you experience a root canal infection, you will still need treatment from our emergency dentist in Brewster NY. Any form of dental emergency will still need to be addressed promptly, even if you are pregnant. 

With late-term pregnancies, our patients may have more difficulty lying down than normal. We will take extra precautions to ensure that our pregnant patients are as comfortable as possible. 

Medications and Anesthesia

You can expect our dentists to understand which forms of anesthesia and medications are appropriate. If you are in the early stages of pregnancy, be sure to let one of our team members know that you are pregnant.

X-Rays and Digital Images

There may be circumstances where one of our dentists needs to use x-rays or another form of imaging on your teeth and jaws. Steps will be taken to protect your baby from exposure to dangerous amounts of radiation.



A lead vest, for example, can safely shield your unborn child during a brief x-ray. Digital imaging devices typically point toward your mouth and away from your body.

Can I Still Undergo Cosmetic Dentistry Brewster NY While I'm Pregnant?

Throughout pregnancy, you will still need to undergo preventative treatments. You will also still need general dentistry procedures. Cosmetic treatments can often wait.



If you are undergoing Invisalign treatments, you can continue using the clear aligners as needed. There is nothing about Invisalign treatments that will interfere with pregnancy.

Be Mindful of Cravings

Cravings are a common part of any pregnancy. Be sure to safely indulge your cravings. If you find yourself craving lemons and pickle juice, those acidic items wear your enamel. 

Sweets and candies can similarly promote bacteria growth that leads to gum disease and tooth decay. As a general rule, try to reduce the consumption of acidic and sugary foods and drinks as much as possible.



Remember, your gums are already likely more prone to gum disease due to hormonal changes associated with pregnancy. If you find it hard to fight pregnancy cravings, take steps to mitigate potential damage done by those habits. Gargling mouthwash is an easy way to cleanse the mouth of acidic and sugary residue. 

Schedule Your Dental Implants Brewster NY or Invisalign Brewster NY Treatments Today