Pregnant women, like all other health check-ups, should consult a dentist for oral and dental health.

Tooth decay, infections, and gum problems can be problematic for both the mother and the baby.

Especially during pregnancy, any pain and the need for medication should be carefully addressed. 

The treatments that can be done and the medications that can be taken are carefully regulated in consultation with the obstetrician. 

The pregnant patient is treated in an appropriate position in the dental chair. X-rays are not taken from the patient, and special electronic devices are used for the stages of treatment requiring radiography. 

The anesthetic solution used is selected not to harm the expectant mother or the baby and not to cause early contractions. 

Another important issue is that the night-time intake of food during the first three months of pregnancy due to vomiting and cravings negatively affects oral and dental health. Rapid tooth decay and gum inflammation are observed. 

Moreover, due to changing hormones, the gums, tongue, and palate mucosa become more sensitive.

The expectant mother often complains of burning sensation in the mouth, bleeding gums, dry mouth, and bad breath. Brushing teeth can become difficult due to nausea. 

In such cases, some recommendations can be followed:

• If toothpaste causes nausea, teeth can be cleaned only with a brush and water, the amount of toothpaste can be reduced, or toothpaste that does not foam much can be preferred.

• Teeth should not be brushed immediately after vomiting. At least half an hour should be waited for the acidity in the mouth to pass.

• Especially after eating at night, teeth must be brushed or sugar-free gum should be chewed. Attention should be paid to the intake of carbohydrate-rich and sugary foods.

• Plenty of water should be drunk to prevent dry mouth.