When you are pregnant, it is very important that you exercise caution in several different areas of your life. Doing this will help to keep both you and the baby as safe as possible. This is also true when you go to the dentist. While you can still go to the dentist, there are certain things that you should keep in mind and also certain things that you should do when you go. This article will discuss 3 tips for going to the dentist while pregnant. 

Let Them Know You Are Pregnant Immediately 

Either over the phone or when you first walk into the dental office to check in, you should let them know that you are pregnant. This allows them to mark down that you are pregnant, which will allow all of the dental assistants, hygienists, and the dentist to know that you are pregnant. This simply ensures that you and your baby are kept safe at the dentist. However, it can still be smart to remind them that you are pregnant before they begin doing any work on your mouth. 

Avoid Any Unnecessary Treatments Until After Pregnancy

There are some treatments that should simply wait until after you have had your baby to receive. This helps to ensure that you and your baby are kept safe. For example, it is going to be in your best interest to avoid getting dental x-rays altogether because these can potentially harm your unborn child. Also, extensive dental work, such as root canals, caps, and even cosmetic dental procedures, should likely wait until after you are pregnant. The main reason for this being that you aren't going to be able to be put under any type of relaxant or anesthesia, and you also won't be able to take pain medication to help dull the pain. 

Have Dental Work Done In Small Increments 

If you do need to have dental work done while you are pregnant, it is going to be best to get this dental work done in small increments. For example, if you have 3 teeth that have cavities in them, it is probably not going to be in your best interest to have them filled all at one time. This is due to the fact that laying on your back for extended periods of time in the dental chair can cause the pressure of the baby on your abdomen to make you lightheaded or even pass out. You may also feel nauseous if you lie this way for too long.