Yes. It is a good idea to get a dental checkup now you are pregnant unless you have had one recently.
Pregnant women are more at risk.
Pregnancy hormone results in increased blood flow in the mucous membranes, including around the teeth. This can result in bleeding gums, pain, bad breath or bad taste in the mouth, receding gums, and sensitive teeth or gums, a buildup of plague, increased bacteria around teeth, gingivitis (inflammation and bleeding of gums), infection of gums and supporting structures, gum overgrowth/swellings, tooth decay and cavities and tooth loss are more common in pregnancy.
As well there have been studies which have linked poor dental condition with premature labour and low birth weight babies.
X-rays and pregnancy
Pregnant women should avoid x-rays where possible, including dental x-rays. If x-rays are needed there should be shielding of the abdomen with a lead apron.
Dental work in pregnancy
Teeth cleaning, descaling, filling of cavities, tooth extraction, and other dental work are usually safe in pregnancy. If there is extensive dental work needed such as root canal therapy then please consult me first. Local anaesthetics are safe. Most antibiotics are safe. Again if your dentist is concerned he should consult me first.
