National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

The term teratogenic effect specifically relates to agents or factors that can disturb the development of an embryo or fetus, leading to congenital abnormalities. This encompasses the harmful impacts of maternal drug use or exposure to certain medications during pregnancy, which may result in various defects or health issues in the developing fetus. Understanding this concept is critical for healthcare providers, including dental hygienists, as it emphasizes the importance of assessing and managing the medication regimens of pregnant patients to prevent potential teratogenic outcomes.

The other choices, while relevant to pregnancy and fetal development, describe different aspects. The effects of dental procedures on pregnant women and the impact of nutrition on fetal development focus on other variables without specifically addressing the relationship between maternal drug use and congenital effects. The effects of radiation exposure can also influence fetal development but are a subset of teratogenic risks rather than the broader definition indicated in the correct choice.