Question about pregnancy and dental health!?

I recently went to a new dentist a few weeks ago after getting years of subservient work done from a medicaid dentist (I am no longer on medicaid and get to see a good dentist!). Anyways, I'm almost 7 months pregnant, apparently have some gum issues (which doesn't surprise me...I am pregnant...but dentist said "moderate gum disease"), and probably have a few cavities. I was told I need a deep cleaning for the gum disease, but OBGYN won't allow x-rays or epinephrine (which is used in the anesthesia to reduce swelling). Also, the dentist wanted to do the deep cleaning before doing the x-rays for the cavities. I have a little less than three months to go in the pregnancy, was given Peridex which helped my gums immensely (no more bleeding at all), and have only a slight and occassional discomfort (not pain) in one tooth (that I suspect is the one with the cavity). Sooo...my question is this: Does everything here seem on the up and up? My main concern is making sure my baby is healthy!

So what do you think about my having to wait on the cleaning since I can't have the epinephrine? My dentist said it would probably be fine as long as I am super strict with my at home care of my teeth (the gum reading/pocket depth things were only moderately bad in the back teeth). I'm honestly concerned because, although like my OBGYN and dentist have both brought up, the deep cleaning could release bacteria into my bloodstream and harm the baby, couldn't waiting also cause infection and harm the baby? I honestly can't see how I can decide! My dentist said she'd try the deep cleaning without the epinephrine, but I don't want to release bacteria into the bloodstream either! I'm also the biggest sissy (although I've had two children without any drugs at this point). I have to be put out totally just to have a cavity filled! Teeth pain is the worst! Child birth pain at least comes with a great ending!

Well, I would wait to do the deep cleaning after the pregnancy. As for not taking xrays before the cleaning, that seems strange to me. They would need a full set to verify you have no infections, the extent of your bone loss, etc. Also a good hygienist is going to want those xrays to instrument efficiently. I would avoid the xrays until after pregnancy, but I agree with the dentist who answered, if you have a tooth bothering you, a single xray should be taken. As long as you are wearing a lead apron, the radiation is very minimal. Just keep up with your oral hygiene and continue with the Peridex. If you need a filling on that tooth that is bothering you, anesthetic without epi is ok. I would get that taken care of before anything else.

Yes, sounds normal. The deep cleaning helps get rid of all that build up, halt bone loss, and prevent future tumors that can form on the gums of pregnant women with gum problems. Many dentists want the cleaning done first b/c the buildup blocks vision of the teeth. You need this cleaning b/c women with gum disease are prone to low birth weight babies.

The claim that gum disease leads to all sorts of health problems (heart attack, stroke etc.) has been given a lot of press. I'm slightly skeptical myself. However, the link between gum disease and low birth weight seems to be better established. But I think the studies were done mostly on women who had pre-existing periodontal problems--not the very common "pregnancy gingivitis" which is tough to avoid.
I think there is nothing wrong with having this done. Usually we try to work with the obstetrician and if possible do necessary dentistry during the second trimester. Obviously you've missed this window. Still, I'm concerned about the pain in the one tooth. Your dentist and obstetrician should be adults about this and not put you in the middle of an argument. Maybe the periodontal work can wait, but a single x-ray of the problem tooth would be allowed. You don't want to be going into labor with a toothache, and I wouldn't want to be your obstetrician if I had to face you at that time with the toothache.
Have them pick up the phone and give you a reasonable solution all of you can live with.

Best of luck to you@

Steve Bornfeld, DDS

The bleeding may be due to your pregnancy hormonal changes. So dont worry. Wait for the baby to be born. In the mean time take good care about your gums. Plain mouth rinse with hot salaine will give you good result. Thats all you need. Good luck
DENTIST

you are having hormonal problems. Gum swellings are natural. Do proper brushing & flossing. Should be ok.