Anchorage Orthodontics Is It Safe to Have Teeth Removed While Pregnant?

It is generally best to avoid major dental work like having teeth extracted while you are pregnant, but this is not always possible. You and your dentist can weigh the dangers and benefits of the procedure together. You should put off elective treatments until after you have given birth. While the chances of a problem occurring are low, it is better to avoid all unnecessary risks. Don't forget to tell your dentist that you are pregnant, and be wary of an office that does not ask questions and take precautions after you let them know.

You will most probably have an infection, pain or both of them for your tooth to need being pulled-out. Gum infections can lead to preterm labor and premature birth. A developing fetus can be affected by oral bacteria from an infection. The mother and the fetus can easily be stressed by toothaches. It would be safer, in this case, to remove the tooth rather than waiting.

Dental work is best done in the second trimester. during the first trimester; a fetus is most at risk. Medications can cause the greatest harm then because that is when major organ development occurs. Preterm labor becomes a concern when nearing the end of the pregnancy. Lying on a chair is also more difficult. Your dentist should be able to tell you if the tooth removal is to be done immediately or if it can wait till the second trimester or after giving birth.

Local anesthetics like lidocaine and novocaine are the best for use while pregnant. When epinephrine is added to these drugs by dentists, they last longer. Only if necessary should this be done because epinephrine can slightly increase the chances of minor birth defects. Whenever possible, general anesthetics that are inhaled or given through an IV should be avoided. Tetracycline is the only antibiotic considered unsafe when prescribing antibiotics for an oral infection. Acetaminophen can be taken before or after having teeth pulled out to dull the pain.

Before having your teeth removed, you may or may not need to have an X-ray. The only reason that your dentist office should do them is if they are of benefit to your treatment and not as part of a routine procedure. The radiation from one exposure is very low but it is best to avoid x-rays during pregnancy. It shouldn't cause harm to a fetus. The lead apron that you shall be given is for covering your abdomen and pelvic area. The amount of radiation that gets to your body is greatly reduced.

Before performing any procedures, your dentist may ask for a letter from the doctor who's handling your pregnancy. Certain information such as whether you should have anesthesia administered and x-rays taken will most likely be required to be included by your dentist. Medical conditions that could put you in a high risk category are identified in this way. You may also be asked to sign a waiver stating that you won't hold the dentist responsible if anything unexpected happens.