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Q: I need a dentist before TTC?

Posted Tuesday, September 18, 2007 3:56 PM

Q: I've heard it's good to see the dentist before I get pregnant. Why?

A: There are a few good reasons to pay your dentist a visit. First, periodontal disease is linked to preterm and underweight babies. Thanks to prostaglandin (a chemical found in oral bacteria that can induce labor), women with periodontal disease could be seven times more likely to have a too-small preemie. Catch and treat this condition before getting pregnant, and you'll avoid major potential problems.

It's also smart to see the dentist because, quite simply, pregnancy does strange stuff to your teeth and mouth. Pregnancy gingivitis -- marked by swelling, bleeding, redness and soreness -- hits about half of all women. Your dentist can prepare you for what to expect, let you know what's normal and what isn't, and make sure your mouth is in as good shape as possible before your hormones get really crazy.

> More from the American Academy of Periodontology

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Posted by Paula K
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Comments

re: Q: TTC Dentist Visit?

Being I am now planning and "trying" ,would you say I should see a dentist now or once I finally get prego?

Posted by Brswty    Thursday, July 12, 2007 3:37 PM


re: Q: TTC Dentist Visit?

You should go now-if you do have peridontal disease or dental problems that will need to be taked care of this will give you time to correct those issues before you are pregnant. Dental work when you are pregnant can get tricky because of all the hormones in your body and if you need to have teeth taken out or if you are at risk for infection of some sort you are limited in the antibiotics and pain meds you can take once you have that little bebe in there.

Posted by mcrussell    Friday, July 13, 2007 10:27 AM


re: Q: I Need a Dentist Before TTC?

Another good reason to visit your dentist before you concieve is to make sure all of your oral x-rays are up to date since it is not advised to have x-rays taken while pregnant.

Posted by crystal.a.t    Sunday, January 13, 2008 2:57 PM


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