There are an abundance of myths out there related to dental care and pregnancy. The following information is intended to dispel the most prominent ones, but always check with your dentist for the best advice pertaining to your specific situation.

Myth: dental work should be avoided while the patient is pregnant or the patient should avoid telling their dentist that they are pregnant.

Fact: The opposite is true. Patients should always inform their dentist of their pregnancy and check-ups, cleanings, and filling work are all recommended. Even local anesthetics and X-Ray’s are permitted, albeit cautiously and only when absolutely necessary. While the ideal time to see the dentist is prior to becoming pregnant, the best time during pregnancy is during the second trimester. Patients should check with their dentist to determine when would be the best time to schedule an appointment.

Myth: calcium from the baby’s teeth is sourced from the mother’s teeth.

Fact: The calcium in a baby’s body comes from its mother’s diet, not her teeth. If the mother’s diet is insufficient, her body would source it from her bones rather than remove it from her teeth.

Myth: avoid X-Rays at all costs.

Fact: While they are usually generally avoided in all but the most imperative situations, X-Rays are actually considered to be safe during pregnancy. Besides, it is better to remove an infection rather than run the risk of the baby contracting it. As always, patients experiencing any pain should consult their dentist for advice pertaining to their specific situation.

Myth: local anesthetics should not be used at all during pregnancy.

Fact: While it is always recommended to consult with your dentist before treatment, many studies have concluded that the use of local anesthetics during pregnancy will not have adverse effects on the baby.

Myth: If you vomit you should immediately brush your teeth.

Fact: It is actually best to rinse with water (or water with baking soda) and wait 30 minutes before brushing rather than brushing outright. This is because brushing immediately after vomiting can further degrade the enamel on your teeth (which the gastric acid from the stomach is already working on). As mentioned above, this can be combated by rinsing with water (adding baking soda assists in neutralizing the acid), then brushing after 30 minutes, preferably with a fluoride-rich toothpaste.