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Pregnancy

Talk about every stage of pregnancy, from early symptoms to preparing for birth.

Is it safe to have dental checkups when pregnant?

14 replies

Couldbepregnant · 13/03/2008 06:38

and are they free for pregnant ladies?

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Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
belgo · 13/03/2008 06:40

I believe that dental check ups are free for pregnant women, and it's a very good idea to have your teeth checked whilst pregnant because it's best to pick up on problems before they become too serious.

Also, a woman's teeth are more vulnerable during pregnancy and are more likely to need treatment.

flossish · 13/03/2008 06:41

not someone else preggers and being quiet about it?!

AFAIK as long as you don't have/need any xrays you'd be fine. Although I think actually they may still be able to xray you too now? HTH

belgo · 13/03/2008 06:44

I'm also wondering who you are Couldbepregnant

Bky · 13/03/2008 06:59

Yes they are free, dental check ups are fine, although the won't be able to any x-rays so make sure you do tell them you are pregnant.

Couldbepregnant · 13/03/2008 07:00

I'm not really a regular but have posted a couple of times. I haven't taken a test yet but I'm pretty sure I am. I don't want to admit that I am pregnant before I've tested because the red lady might come! How do I go about proving I'm pregnant for a free checkup?

OP posts:
Bky · 13/03/2008 07:00

Just to add I think they are only free if you are an NHS patient, not sure if they are free if you go private.

belgo · 13/03/2008 07:01

I think you go to your GP and ask for a form?

ruty · 13/03/2008 07:02

yes they're free. Do tell them you're pregnant, they shoulnd't x ray you to be on the safe side. And white fillings are better than amalgam in pregnancy, but unfortunately i think you have to pay for white ones. Amalgam ones have mercury in them.

flossish · 13/03/2008 07:02

I didn't get my form until I was 12 weeks at my booking in. Then had to send off form and wait for card to come!

Bky · 13/03/2008 07:02

When you see midwife they will give you a form and you will recieve a credit card sized thing through the post which entitles you to free treatment and prescriptions. Although no-one has ever actually asked me to show them this card.

Couldbepregnant · 13/03/2008 07:05

I think I'd better cancel my appointment on Monday for another time. I will be testing on Friday!!!!

OP posts:
Louise2004 · 13/03/2008 07:12

Here is some info from the American dental health organisation (presumably it's the same as the UK dental health organisation, but your dentist should be able to give all the info and let you know whether you can have x-rays etc. during pregnancy):

PREGNANCY AND ORAL HEALTH

How does pregnancy affect my oral health?

You may experience some changes in your oral health during pregnancy. The primary change is a surge in hormones, particularly an increase in estrogen and progesterone, which is linked to an increase in the amount of plaque on your teeth.

How does a build-up of plaque affect me?

If the plaque isn?t removed, it can cause gingivitis, usually surfacing in the second trimester. If you already have gingivitis, the condition is likely to worsen during pregnancy. If untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, a more serious form of gum disease. Pregnant women are also at risk for developing inflammatory, benign growths that develop when swollen gums become irritated. Normally, the tumors are left alone and will break on their own but if a tumor is very uncomfortable and interferes with chewing, brushing or other oral hygiene procedures, the dentist may decide to remove it.

How can I prevent these problems?

Keep your teeth clean, especially near the gum line. You should brush with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, and after each meal when possible. You should also floss thoroughly each day. If tooth brushing causes morning sickness, rinse your mouth with water or with anti-plaque and fluoride mouthwashes. Good nutrition, particularly plenty of vitamin C and B12, help keep the oral cavity healthy and strong. Frequent cleanings from the dentist will help control plaque and prevent gingivitis, which will reduce gum irritation and the likelihood of pregnancy tumors.

When should I see my dentist?

If you?re planning to become pregnant or suspect you?re pregnant, you should see a dentist right away. Otherwise, you should schedule a check-up in your first trimester for a cleaning. Your dentist will assess your oral condition and map out a dental plan for the rest of your pregnancy.

Are there any procedures I should avoid?

Non-emergency procedures can generally be performed when pregnant, but the best time for any dental treatment is during the 4-6 month period. Women with dental emergencies can be treated during any trimester, but your obstetrician should be consulted if anaesthesia or medication is prescribed. Lastly, elective procedures that can be postponed should be delayed until after the birth.

Mum2b2BabyRoo · 13/03/2008 10:05

I found out I was pregnant the day before I had a dentist appointment, and when I shared my happy news with the dentist, she said to make sure I told the receptionist so I didn't have to pay (so way before I got my card!) I have had 2 checkups since being pregnant, and the last time I wanted to see the hygenist as well but they told me that they prefer it if you come back after the pregnancy to see the hygenist as the baby doesn't like some part of it (sorry to sound vague - not really sure what part the baby doesn't like but would rather not do anything the baby doesn't like! lol!)

VictorianSqualor · 13/03/2008 10:12

I had a really awful toothache the other day and because I couldn't take anything for it, nor could they x-ray me they drilled into my tooth, took out my nerve and then filled it.
So you can have everything done except x-rays.
Also, yes it is free, you just have to fill in your due date on the NHS form.
They didn't ask to see anything of mine, but then I am 36weeks and rather large, I think it may have been obvious

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