Dental treatment during pregnancy: a preventive approach.

Applying the basics of preventive dentistry at the primary level will broaden the scope of prenatal care. Dentists should encourage all patients of childbearing age to seek oral health counseling and examination as soon as they learn they are pregnant. Specific printed information on pre- and postnatal fluoride, plaque control, nutrition, and tooth development should be available for pregnant patients. Recall systems should allow for pregnant patients. Emergency problems should not be deferred for treatment in the second trimester but should be alleviated immediately. Indicated medications should not be withheld because of pregnancy but patients must be informed of benefits and risks. Consultation with the patient's physician is always appropriate.