Written By Dr. Kyle Griffith
It is always a special day at the dental office when we get to see one of our patients who is pregnant. We love to help mothers take the best care of themselves and their developing baby. It is not uncommon for mothers to have questions about dentistry and pregnancy as they are trying to take the very best care of their developing little one. Here are some common dental questions that soon-to-be parents ask:
- Is it safe to go to the dentist when I’m pregnant? Yes, in fact we encourage it. The healthier a mother’s mouth, the better it is for the baby. Two things we think about are the patient’s comfort and the necessity of dentistry. Usually, the second trimester is the most comfortable time for a patient to go to the dentist as morning sickness has subsided. The third trimester presents different comfort challenges due to the rapid growth of the baby. Lying down for a dental appointment later in the third trimester may be uncomfortable at best due to the size and position of the child. Dental cleanings and exams are very safe and can be completed at any time during pregnancy, as can urgent or emergency dentistry. Elective dentistry is most often postponed until after the baby’s birth.
- Are dental x-rays safe when I’m pregnant? Yes, dental x-rays are safe for both mother and baby, but as an extra precaution we avoid taking excessive x-rays and focus on only those that are necessary for the treatment of urgent or emergency dental needs. Most of the time our patients who are healthy or have only minor dental needs forgo dental x-rays while they are pregnant. If you have urgent or emergency dental needs, x-rays are most likely going to be necessary for optimal treatment. Remember, while dental x-rays are safe, a dental emergency left untreated could harm both mother and baby.
- Is Novocaine ok to have when I’m pregnant? There are specific dental anesthetics that are safe to use during pregnancy. As an extra precaution these specific anesthetics are used sparingly even though they are very safe.
- What about pain medications or antibiotics? There are very specific pain medications and antibiotics that are safe to use while pregnant. The common theme is to use these medications sparingly though. Once again, it’s best to be treated and use pain medications and antibiotics appropriately rather than let an urgent or emergency dental issue develop further.
- Is laughing gas or Nitrous Oxide safe when I’m pregnant? No, laughing gas is not safe during pregnancy. Laughing gas can negatively affect a baby’s development. Do not use laughing gas when you’re pregnant.
Dentistry is very safe for both mother and baby. Remember: The healthier your mouth is, the better it is for your little bundle of joy! Please consider addressing urgent or emergency dentistry so that mom and baby stay healthy for the duration of pregnancy. If you or a loved one have questions regarding pregnancy and dentistry, please do not hesitate to contact one of the team members at 58 Dental in Denver, Colorado. We’re excited for the wonderful addition to your family!
