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Tooth Extractions During Preganancy- Is It Safe?
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can make your gums sensitive and lead to a host of dental problems. However, during this sensitive time, many women wonder if a tooth extraction is safe. Keep reading to know more.
Is a Tooth Extraction During Pregnancy Safe?
Dentists usually refrain from tooth extraction when a woman is pregnant. That's because it can lead to excessive pain, and stress, which is harmful for your growing baby. However, in case of an infection or gingivitis, an emergency tooth extraction may be considered.
Common Oral Problems During Pregnancy
Hormonal secretion can cause or worsen dental problems in expecting women. Here are some common oral problems that you may face during pregnancy:
1. Gingivitis
Gingivitis makes your gums tender and causes inflammation and swelling. You may also notice bleeding gums when you brush or floss. Visit your dentist regularly for teeth cleaning.
2. Tooth Decay
An increased intake of carbohydrates can contribute to tooth decay during pregnancy. Morning sickness associated with acid reflux and vomiting can also increase the level of acid in your mouth and cause the enamel to wear off, leading to tooth decay.
3. Pregnancy Tumors
Occurring in 5% of pregnancies, pregnancy tumours, also called pyogenic granuloma, can cause an extra growth of tissues between the teeth. These are usually caused due to excess plaque and are known to reduce after delivery.
Symptoms That Indicate the Need for a Tooth Extraction
If you notice the following symptoms during pregnancy, your tooth may have to be extracted.
• Intense pain in the gums and tooth
• Decay or infection in the tooth
• Trouble eating food
• Swollen or inflamed gums
• Trouble speaking
• Bleeding gums
It's always best to avoid a tooth extraction done during pregnancy, if possible.
When Can a Tooth Extraction Be Done?
Most dentists don't perform a tooth extraction procedure during pregnancy unless it's an emergency. However, in the case you need one, wait for the right time to get the procedure done.
1. First Trimester
Since the first trimester is a crucial time for the development of your baby, no dental procedures are carried out during this time. In case you have a serious tooth condition, the best course of action is to take home remedies and avoid drugs.
2. Second Trimester
The second trimester is considered the safest time to opt for tooth extraction, as most of your baby’s organs would have developed by this time. However, you should put off any advanced procedures. If you experience a syncope (temporary or partial loss of consciousness) or dizziness, your dentist will turn you onto your left to alleviate the pressure. You may experience a Supine Hypotension Syndrome (drop in blood pressure) when you are seated in a reclined position, due to the pressure exerted by the fetus on a large vein called inferior vena cava. In such cases, the dentist will elevate your hip to about 10 to 12 cm on the chair.
3. Third Trimester
Since you may find it hard to sit in a stationary position for a long time, dental procedures are not recommended. Stress due to pain can also lead to premature childbirth. If you experience intense pain that makes a tooth extraction inevitable, the first month of the third trimester is usually considered safe. Otherwise, it's better to wait until after delivery.
Safety Precautions
Here are some safety precautions that should be taken if you opt for a tooth extraction during pregnancy:
1. During the Procedure
Since X-rays and anaesthesia are administered, certain precautions need to be taken to avoid adverse effects on the foetus.
•During the X-ray, a lead sheet should be used to cover your upper body to prevent any harm to the baby due to radiation.
• Local anaesthesia like Novocaine or Lidocaine should be used on pregnant women. These are category B drugs that get filtered out of the placenta before reaching the fetus.
2. Medication
Any medication given after the procedure should be safe for both you and your baby.
•Penicillin, clindamycin, and amoxicillin are considered safe for pregnant women. Erythromycin is also prescribed to women who do not have any adverse reaction to it. Ensure to keep your doctor informed if you are allergic to any of these medicines so that an alternative can be prescribed.
• In order to relieve post-procedural pain, you may be prescribed opioid pain medication like hydrocodone, codeine, etc. Certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin may be prescribed for short-term use (72 hours). However, these should be avoided in the first and the third trimesters.
Medicines You Should Avoid
Avoid taking these medicines during pregnancy:
•Tetracycline, doxycycline, and minocycline should be avoided both for topical use and as a pill, as these can stain your baby's teeth.
• Fluoroquinolones like levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, and moxifloxacin should also be avoided.
• Certain retinoids and teratogenics like thalidomide can cause cleft lips and other abnormalities in the baby and hence should be avoided.
What If the Wisdom Tooth Needs to Be Removed?
Gum problems during pregnancy can also lead to the aggravation of the pain caused due to the wisdom tooth. Infection, plaque build-up, or abnormal growth may worsen this pain. In such cases, the wisdom tooth extraction follows the same precautions as normal tooth extraction.
Does Pregnancy Lead to Tooth Loss?
Although pregnancy can increase sensitivity in the gums and lead to gingivitis, you don't have to worry about tooth loss.
How to Prevent Dental Procedures in Pregnancy
Following proper dental hygiene and exercising precautions can rule out the need for dental procedures during pregnancy altogether. Here are some things you could do to prevent them:
• Prevent plaque build-up by regularly visiting your dentist.
• Reduce the intake of sweet foods to prevent swelling and inflammation of the gums, as it attracts bacteria.
• Use toothpaste that contains fluoride and floss every day. Avoid using a mouthwash that contains alcohol.
• Use a brush with smooth bristles to prevent irritation to the gums.
• Dental grafting during pregnancy can aggravate gum bleeding.
• Smoking is also one of the common causes of periodontal problems.
Dental care is important throughout life and, more so, during pregnancy. Ensure you maintain proper dental hygiene and visit a dentist regularly to track your dental health.
Also Read: Appendicitis in Pregnancy Read more
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Can You Imagine a World Without Trees? Save Trees and Save Earth
A world without trees will look like hell. A world without trees is not possible! Trees are the most important prerequisite for creation as well as the continuation of life. Trees, like God, always give the world everything they have. Each part of trees—from the leaves to roots is life-giving to man and all life-forms. If we call them the visible form of the invisible God, it won’t be an exaggeration.
Trees are the source of life. They are the giving angels. They give man oxygen, rains, wood, fruit. They make the world look so beautiful, yet the sinister man kills them! Who will be more inhumane than man himself? Cutting of forests ultimately endangers man’s own existence.
They produce all the oxygen of the world that human beings and animals inhale and need to live. Trees provide shelter to millions of species of plants and animals. They are the nursery and womb of creation of life. They are important to the environment, as they recycle water and regulate levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere through photosynthesis. They are the world's heavy-duty regulators of air and water. Their cutting will disturb the natural water cycles, which will lead to a shortage of fresh-water in the water reserves of the world.
However, the present condition of trees and forests in the world, especially developing countries, is pathetic and miserable. They are being felled with foolish recklessness.
Trees are indispensable for evolution and the smooth running of all the life forms on the planet. They are indeed the power-house of evolution. We must not let anyone fell a tree. Each one of us must plant at least one tree each, and ensure they grow into full trees. It will be the most positive and constructive step towards environment conservation.
Save Trees! Save the World!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
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Your Complete Diwali Celebration Guide During Pregnancy
Diwali is that glorious time of the year when the whole town looks splendid and shining. If you're apprehensive that pregnancy can limit your enjoyment, don't worry. Use these Diwali celebration ideas for pregnant women and have a fun festive season!
From cleaning your house to putting up decorations to gorging on good food – Diwali is truly the king of Indian festivals. But wait, you are pregnant. You need to ensure that this Diwali is happy and safe not just for you but also for your baby!
Cleaning Home For Diwali During Pregnancy
House cleaning forms an essential part of Diwali – right from your kitchen to the plants in your garden to a change in interior décor. However, pregnancy can limit the kind of chores that are safe for you. That doesn't mean you must stay away from decoration completely! Just keep these tips in mind:
Take on the more creative of projects and leave the physically draining ones for the rest of the family. For example, you can try out some diya decoration ideas or help with the designing of your new bedroom plan. But avoid dusting, climbing ladders to put up decorations, or lifting heavy weights.
You will tend to get tired more easily, and also be clumsier than others. This is because your centre of gravity shifts with your growing bump. Say a complete no-no to any tasks that put you at the risk of falling or bumping into things.
Be wary of chemical cleaning products. These may contain harmful substances that you should stay away from during pregnancy.
Diwali Feasting When Expecting
Think Diwali and your mouth starts watering! What's the festival of lights without good old mithai and namkeen? But if you are pregnant during Diwali time, keep these pointers in mind while feasting:
Hard as it can be, limit your consumption of sweets and deep fried foods. You are at a higher risk of acidity and heartburn when pregnant. You could go in for baked foods as opposed to fried ones. Also keep the portions small and timed through the day rather than all at once.
Avoid eating out during Diwali. There is a higher chance of food adulteration and poor hygiene since restaurants are crowded during the festive season.
Another thing that goes without saying is keeping away from alcohol. This is the top contender in the list of what not to eat during Diwali when pregnant! Also keep your consumption of caffeine in check. Replace those coffees during family gatherings with healthy drinks such as lime-water, fruit juice and milk shakes.
Other Safety Precautions For Deepavali During Pregnancy
Finally, if you are worried about festive wear, fire-crackers and the other random stuff that the season is famous for, here are a few helpful tips for you:
Avoid going in for beauty treatments that involve too many chemicals or require you to bend over. In fact, stay away from repeatedly bending over to touch your elders' feet as well! Everyone will understand.
Firecrackers are safe as long as you maintain a distance from them. Try not to expose yourself to harsh noise, glaring lights or crackers with too much smoke. Twinkling fairy lights and gentle sparklers are your best friends (and your baby's too!)
Ensure you get sufficient sleep and snack often. Try not to over exert yourself on Diwali day.
Dress up in loose, comfortable clothes that allow you enough breathing space.
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Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. hi have one question
LT 10x18mm and RT 18x20mm and ET 6.5
what it mean??? and should I start intercourse
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
5 hours ago
A. since you are right follicle is 18 mm yes of course you can start with your intercourse for conception as in 1 to 2 days
their maybe rupture of the follicle by which your sperm should be present there for conception
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
why baby vomit
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
5 hours ago
A. for babies less than 6 months may not be a problem. small babies will be having lot of gas because of various reasons it is advisable to do burping of the baby immediately after feeding please give colimex DF drops to the baby they are safe
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
5 hours ago
Q. i am 35 weeks 3 days pregnant... my ultrasound report shows that "fl and hl are shorter compared to bpd"... is this anything to worry
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
1 hour ago
A. You should have proper consultation with your treating doctor , as some examination or investigations may be needful, so that proper medications can be given And the treatment can be done very properly.
needs proper follow-up for this
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. I am 9 week pregnant and I have runny nose very badly can I use cetirizine tablet?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
1 hour ago
A. use nasal drops , that acts faster .
You should have proper consultation with your treating doctor , as some examination or investigations may be needful, so that proper medications can be given And the treatment can be done very properly.
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
5 hours ago
Q. hi,
my LT 10x18mm and RT 18x20mm and ET 6.5 , what if I intercourse after 2 days, can I do intercourse in ovulation day can become a pregent .
on ovulation day if we intercourse can become a pregent..pls advice..
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
1 hour ago
A. since the follicle size is 18 to 20 mm your ovulation may occur within 24 hours also so if you have intercourse with in that time it will be more effective to get conceived
your endometrial growth is not good enough for conception but still you can just try
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. Hlw dr its my 6th month pregnency can i intimate with my partner
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. Hello dear! If your pregnancy is going on fine without any high risk factors then it’s okay. Still, would advise you to check with your doctor once before going further. Maintain a good personal hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle
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