From the Guidelines
Yes, it is safe to visit the dentist during pregnancy, and routine dental assessments and preventive dental care are actually recommended. According to recent guidelines, dental care in pregnancy is safe 1. Pregnant women should inform their dentist about their pregnancy so appropriate precautions can be taken.
Key Considerations
- Routine dental procedures like cleanings, fillings, and even necessary X-rays (with proper shielding) are safe during pregnancy 1.
- Local anesthetics containing lidocaine with epinephrine are considered safe for use in pregnant patients.
- For pain management, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally considered safe, while NSAIDs like ibuprofen should be avoided, especially in the third trimester.
- Some dental treatments that aren't urgent might be postponed until after delivery.
Importance of Oral Health During Pregnancy
- Good oral health during pregnancy is important because hormonal changes can increase the risk of gum disease 1.
- Gum disease has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes like preterm birth.
- Regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental care help maintain oral health and contribute to overall maternal and fetal wellbeing 1.
From the Research
Safety of Visiting the Dentist During Pregnancy
- Visiting the dentist during pregnancy is considered safe, with most dental work being suitable for pregnant women 2, 3.
- Good oral health during pregnancy is important for the overall health of both the expectant mother and her baby 2, 4.
- Preventive and restorative dental treatment is safe during pregnancy, and diagnostic radiographs may be performed after the first trimester if absolutely necessary 3.
- Analgesics and anesthetics, such as paracetamol and lidocaine, are also considered safe during pregnancy 3.
- In case of infection, antibacterial drugs like amoxicillin, ampicillin, and some cephalosporines and macrolides can be prescribed 3.
Ideal Time for Dental Treatment
- The ideal time to perform dental treatment is the second trimester (week 17 to 28), as organogenesis takes place in the first trimester, making the fetus susceptible to severe malformations 3.
- However, acute pain or infections may require emergency treatment, which can be performed during the whole pregnancy period 3.
Barriers to Dental Care
- Many women lack access to dental care and dental insurance, which interferes with their ability to receive adequate oral care during pregnancy 4, 5.
- Misconceptions about the safety and appropriateness of dental care during pregnancy may also affect women's access to and use of this care 5.
- Barriers to dental care include lack of insurance, difficulty in finding a dentist, low priority given to dental care, and sporadic anticipatory guidance during prenatal care 5.