Healthy Teeth, Healthy Baby

Missoula dental exam during pregnancy

This post from Felton Dental Care in Missoula is for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Carrying a precious little one can not only consume your time, but your attention as well. However, don’t forget your needs and your stamina during these critical months.

It’s important to understand that the multitude of changes your body experiences during pregnancy also influence the mouth. Changes in your hormonal balance are necessary for growing a new life, but they can also compromise your oral health during pregnancy. Your gums are especially susceptible. In fact, the American Dental Association has conducted studies that reveal a slightly increased risk of low birth weight and pre-term infants in mothers with periodontal disease.

In order to keep your smile healthy, it is ideal to visit the dentist before you are pregnant. If you are already pregnant but haven’t visited a dentist in a while, we encourage you to have an exam. We can check your teeth and gums and advise you if any changes to your dental hygiene routine are necessary. If there are issues such as gingivitis, it’s a good idea to have us monitor them throughout your pregnancy.

Any treatment—meaning care more invasive than an exam and cleaning —hopefully can wait until after your baby arrives. If you have a dental emergency that needs to be addressed before delivery, the best time is during the second trimester. Modern x-ray methods are extremely safe but should be avoided if possible throughout your pregnancy.

At Felton Dental Care in Missoula, we provide general and family dentistry for you and your entire brood. We also offer cosmetic dentistry. Schedule an appointment with us today.

Contact Felton Dental Care – Dr. Brett R. Felton, DMD:

406-728-0896

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1750 Brooks St
Missoula, Montana
59801

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