Everything changes when you're pregnant.  You must no limit some of your formerly mundane activities, watch your diet, refrain from riding roller coasters and visit the doctor every few weeks.  Life goes on, of course.  You're pregnant, not sick (at least we hope that you're not sick).  And your teeth still need attention even when you're pregnant. 

Many women think that they should not get dental work done at all while their pregnant or that they should at least wait until the second trimester. 

However, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that pregnant women eat a balanced diet, brush their teeth thoroughly with an ADA accepted fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, floss at least once a day and schedule regular dental visits and periodic professional teeth cleanings.  Keep a regular cleaning schedule at home, as well as at the dentist's office. 

If you have not been seen for regular checkups, now is a good time to schedule an appointment.  It is often common for a pregnant woman's gums to bleed more easily during pregnancy; don't worry.  This is normal.  However, having your teeth cleaned more frequently may help with the bleeding.  Many women also experience morning sickness when they are pregnant.  With this comes vomiting and nausea.  The acids found in vomit can be very damaging to your teeth.  This is yet another reason why you should see a dentist while pregnant.  It is also important to see your dentist regularly, as gum disease has been linked to preterm birth. 

When you're pregnant, you should, however, avoid elective dental treatment such as routine dental X-rays.  If you have a dental emergency due to dental pain or an accident, an X-ray may be necessary.  If this occurs, be sure to have your dentist consult your obstetrician.  Also avoid teeth whitening treatments and bonding, especially during the first trimester.  Local anesthetic and X-rays should be used conservatively during the first trimester. 

There can be advantages and disadvantages to getting dental work done while you're pregnant.  Some insurance companies cover more dental procedures while you're pregnant than when you're not pregnant.  This may allow you to have procedures done on your teeth that you would not normally have been able to afford.  One disadvantage is that the use of pain medication while you're pregnant must be limited (no heavy narcotics for the pregnant women!).  So many women are only able to take Tylenol for the lingering pain of dental work. 

If you are worried about visiting a dentist while pregnant, simply talk to your obstetrician.  S/he will be able to calm your fears and properly inform you of the risks or benefits involved in dental work while pregnant. 

Remember that you're not the only one who needs dental care.  Your baby needs proper dental care from birth on.  Take care not to share spoons, forks and other utensils with babies.  The saliva you leave on the utensil contains bacteria that can cause tooth decay.  Also, if you bottle feed, be sure not to put your baby to bed with a bottle of juice, milk, formula or other sugary liquid.  Tooth decay can occur much more easily while these liquids stay in the mouth.  Finally, keep your baby away from second hand cigarette smoke.  Tobacco smoke may contribute to the development of tooth decay and gum disease.