Almost everyone is familiar with the common pregnancy precautions of avoiding alcohol, eating healthy, and taking prenatal vitamins. What many people don’t realize, however, is that some dental precautions that should be kept in mind as well. Your Sheridan dentists, Dr. Donald Coon, Dr. Justin Coon, and Dr. Cody Coon, explain the importance of prenatal dental care.

Take Care of Gums

Healthy gums are important to pregnant women. Because of increased hormone levels, a pregnant woman’s gums will react more severely to plaque build-up, thus swelling and bleeding more frequently. This condition is called “pregnancy gingivitis.” Keeping this condition, which is the earliest stage of gum disease, under control is essential because women who have gum disease are more likely to develop pregnancy complications. Gum disease has been linked with preeclampsia and delivering premature or underweight babies, so preventing gum disease is vital for both your health the health of your child.

Dental Check-up

One dental check-up during your pregnancy should suffice, unless a special need arises. Sitting for long periods of time in the dentist chair can be uncomfortable in pregnancy, especially during the last trimester, so it is best to schedule your check-up before that time. Your Sheridan dentist will make sure that you are properly maintaining your oral hygiene, and provide you with advice for your child’s dental care once he or she is born.
At Grinnell Street Dental, we care about the health of you and your baby. Schedule an appointment at our Sheridan, Wyoming office today by calling (307) 672-7567.