Pregnancy and dental visits

By Dr Keith John

Dental X-rays during pregnancy:

Dental X-rays are not considered safe during the first trimester of pregnancy, because taking X-rays might pose a risk to the fetal organ development going on inside the womb. However, if it is an emergency, digital X-rays may be taken, which have 90 per cent reduction in radiation, as compared to normal X-rays. But, to be on the safe side, X-rays are generally avoided.{{more}}

Dental fillings and crowns:

It is safe to get composite dental fillings and dental crowns during pregnancy. However, you should never ever go for silver amalgam filling if you are pregnant. Also there are chances that dental fillings could affect you, especially if you are in pain, which indicates that you may have an infection. So, it is best to discuss the matter with the dentist before undergoing filling.

Medications during pregnancy:

Administration of local anesthesia (if administered under recommended dosage) is safe during pregnancy. Certain medications like benzodiazepines (lorazepam, triazolam etc), codeine, hydrocodone, nitrous oxide or laughing gas should be avoided. Also avoid aspirin.

Drugs that are safe to be taken during pregnancy are acetaminophen, ibuprofen, penicillin, amoxicillin; clindamycin and naproxen.

Dr Keith John

email:drkeithjohn@gmail.com

clinic: S.V.G DentalCorporation

Telephone: 7844562220

cell: 7845260752