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myths about teeth cleaning while pregnant

Myths about dental care and pregnancy can fill you full of confusion that prevents you from doing the right thing. The following are a few common myths that we’ll debunk and provide you with the true facts.

Myth: Mothers Who Get X-rays During Dental Treatment Put Their Babies at Risk

For years rumors have been circulating that you shouldn’t see the dentist while you’re pregnant because an x-ray could harm the baby’s health.

Yet, Americanpregancy.org says that it’s common for pregnant women to get dental work during pregnancy and that no single diagnostic x-ray produces enough radiation to cause adverse effects for developing embryos or fetuses. In addition, the American Dental Association (ADA) states that with proper shielding, dental x-rays are safe for expecting mothers.

Even so, if no emergency dental work is needed during your third trimester of pregnancy, then typically your dentist would postpone work until after childbirth.

But it’s important to keep your teeth and gums healthy and you should continue with regular cleanings.

Myth: Mothers Lose Calcium that Goes to the Baby During Pregnancy

The idea that calcium loss or leaching occurs in pregnant mothers’ because the baby takes the mother’s calcium is a false myth about dental care and pregnancy. Mothers experience a lot of hormone changes during pregnancy, and extra calcium becomes necessary for proper body function. High amounts of calcium are also needed for the baby’s development. Other vitamins such as folic acid and vitamin D are also vitally important during pregnancy. Whenever your body does not get enough calcium, you can be at risk for bone loss.

Prenatal vitamins and calcium rich diets typically provide mothers with enough calcium during pregnancy.

Are There Other “Facts” You Suspect Might Be Myths about Dental Care and Pregnancy?

Ask Dr. Baker about your concerns. He’s happy to give you the facts, help get rid of your confusion and explain how dental care works.