Dental x-rays, antibiotics and local anesthetics during pregnancy
Are dental X-rays safe?
Dental x-rays are needed to clarify a diagnosis, during treatment and in emergency situations. It is important not to forget that a healthy mother means a healthy baby. Untreated infections in the oral cavity may pose a risk to both the fetus and the mother.
- In modern x-rays, the radiation dose for intraoral radiography is small and cannot cause adverse effects on the developing embryo or fetus.
- For pregnant women, X-rays can be taken only when needed, using a lead apron and a thyroid collar around the neck.
- Always inform your dental practitioner if you are in this condition. If feeling embarrassed, it is good to discuss with your dentist whether treatment could not be postponed after birth.
- Dental x-rays can also be taken of women trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding.
Is anesthetic needed during pregnancy when visiting a dentist? Are local anesthetics safe during this period?
In modern dentistry anesthesia can be used for almost any manipulation.
- Whether a pregnant woman would prefer to work with or without anesthesia is strictly individual. It is largely determined by her pain threshold, her fears and her previous experience in the dental office.
- Local anesthetics are rapidly absorbed and cross the placenta. If necessary to inject local anesthesia in the oral cavity, the anesthetic’s content and amount are significant so that the pregnant woman is comfortable and does not feel pain. This will reduce both her anxiety and stress on the baby.
There are urgent conditions that require the use of antibiotics. Can the pregnant woman use antibiotics?
Antibiotic treatment in pregnancy should be justified and with minimal risk for the mother and fetus. The optimal choice of medication, dose and duration of treatment and the period of pregnancy are extremely important. For safe during pregnancy antibiotics are considered the group of penicillins, cephalosporins and macrolides. There are also antibiotics, for example. those in the tetracycline group, which should not be used because of the adverse effect on the fetus’ bones and tooth enamel. Therefore, future mothers should not resort to self-medication, but take antibiotics only after a medical appointment. Tell your dentist that you are pregnant and if you had any allergic incidents in the past.
