Dental Care in Pregnancy


Don't avoid visits to your dentist or ignore your teeth during this time. See your dentist at least once and inform him of your pregnancy. If you need dental work postpone it until after the first 12 weeks if possible. You may not be able to wait if you have an infection; untreated infection could be harmful to you and your baby. Antibiotics or medications may be necessary. Consult with your doctor before taking anything. Many antibiotics and pain medications are OK to take. Be careful with anesthesia for dental work; local anesthesia is Ok. Avoid gas and general anesthesia when possible. If general anesthesia is at all necessary, make sure an experienced anesthesiologist who knows about your condition administers it. Dental X-rays are sometimes necessary and can be done during pregnancy. Your abdomen must be shielded with a lead apron before X-rays are taken. If possible wait until the end of your first trimester to have any dental work done.