Dental Treatments During Pregnancy
Dental Cleaning, Examination, Fillings, Root Canal, and Tooth Extraction
Dental procedures such as cleaning, examination, fillings, root canal treatment, and tooth extraction are generally safe during pregnancy. There is no need to postpone them unless there is an urgent medical reason. On the contrary, dental pain and infections can pose risks to both the mother and the baby, so treatment should not be neglected. Planned and elective procedures are usually more comfortably performed during the second trimester. However, if there is an emergency, intervention can be carried out at any stage of pregnancy.
Local anesthetics can be used safely. For pain management, paracetamol (acetaminophen) is the preferred choice, while some painkillers are not recommended, especially in the late stages of pregnancy. If antibiotics are needed, the doctor will select medications that are safe for pregnancy. All medication regimens should always be determined jointly by the dentist and the obstetrician.
Can Tooth Extraction Be Performed During Pregnancy?
Tooth extraction can be performed if necessary during pregnancy. Severe pain, acute infection, cysts, tumors, or decay and bone loss in adjacent teeth may make extraction mandatory. Such procedures can be safely performed at any stage of pregnancy. Elective extractions are generally scheduled in the second trimester for the mother’s comfort.
In the last months of pregnancy, lying on the back for long periods may cause circulation issues. Therefore, it is recommended to adjust the dental chair to a suitable position and take breaks during the procedure. With proper anesthesia, no pain is felt during the operation.
Can Root Canal Treatment Be Performed During Pregnancy?
Root canal treatment is the most effective method for treating decay and infections that have reached the inner tissue of the tooth. Delaying treatment can negatively affect both the mother’s health and the baby’s development. Root canal treatment can be safely performed under local anesthesia.
If needed, X-rays can be taken for diagnosis. Modern digital devices expose the patient to very low doses, and with proper protective measures, the procedure is safe. Isolation techniques used during treatment enhance both the success and safety of the procedure.
Is Dental Filling Safe During Pregnancy?
Filling treatment can be safely performed during pregnancy to stop the progression of cavities and protect the tooth. Composite or glass ionomer fillings are the preferred materials. They do not harm the baby and preserve the function of the tooth.
Amalgam fillings, in painful situations such as fractures or abscesses, should always be removed with the use of a rubber dam.
Can Dental X-Rays Be Taken During Pregnancy?
Dental X-rays can be taken if necessary during pregnancy. Modern digital X-ray devices emit very low doses and do not harm the fetus. X-rays should only be taken when necessary, following the principle of the lowest possible exposure.
According to current guidelines, small periapical X-rays that visualize 2–3 teeth can be safely taken, while panoramic films must always be taken with a protective lead apron. CT scans should be avoided whenever possible.
Laser surgical procedures should not be performed during pregnancy.
This page is for informational purposes only.
For diagnosis and treatment, you must consult your dentist.