Pregnant women are tasked with not only making sure that their health is protected but also with ensuring the choices they make for their own health do not harm their unborn child.
The same is true for breastfeeding mothers. Every surgery and medication must be cleared by their obstetrician in order to ensure that the little ones are protected.
Will a pregnant woman put her unborn baby at risk by getting a root canal, or should she wait until after the baby is born to undergo the procedure?
Can You Get a Root Canal While Pregnant?
Both the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Dental Association have looked into the effect of root canals on pregnant women and their babies and have agreed that they are safe.
There are a number of different things that happen as part of the process of getting a root canal that could potentially be a concern, but each one was investigated and found to be safe for pregnant women.
For example, the primary concern was the anesthesia that may be used to manage pain associated with getting a root canal. However, it was found that local anesthetics that are powerful enough to make the root canal experience more comfortable had no ill effect on the baby.
Similarly, the antibiotics approved for use during root canals to stave off infection were also found to be safe for pregnant women to use.
Lastly, x-rays of the mouth that help the dentists to complete the procedure were considered to be fine as well, as long as the belly and thyroid were protected from exposure to the radiation.
Dental Care for Pregnant Women
During pregnancy, women can experience a number of issues with their health, including their oral health. It is especially important during this time of great change in a woman’s body that she continues to seek regular dental care and cleanings and address any issues that arise.
There are some dental treatments that may not be considered safe for pregnant women, so it is important to always discuss potential dental care with your OBGYN before undergoing any procedure.
Similarly, each pregnancy is different. While most dental professionals and OBGYNs agree that a root canal is safe, for some women it may not be. In fact, not all dental professionals are in agreement that endodontic treatment is appropriate for pregnant women, including root canals.
If you are pregnant and your dentist is suggesting that a root canal is the best next step for you to take, confirm with your doctor that it is an appropriate choice in your personal circumstance.
Pregnancy & Dental Care
Is it time to get a dental checkup during your pregnancy? Contact Dison Family Dentistry to set up an appointment and get the care you need.