Going to the dentist may feel like a chore for many even under usual circumstances. However, pregnancy and tooth removal can be a real challenge when paired together. Usually, your gums will be extra sensitive, and you might get nauseous quickly.
However, what we’re discussing today is: can you get a tooth pulled while pregnant? Is it safe? Well, yes. But, there are some things you need to know beforehand, which is what we will discuss more in detail throughout this article.
And, if you’re all set and ready but in need of a dentist for your tooth extraction, look no further, Flex Dental has got you covered. Now, let’s get into the nitty gritty of tooth extractions.
The Importance of Dental Care During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, your risk for cavities or gingivitis tends to be higher than usual, after all, your hormones are all over the place, which can result in a susceptibility to inflammation, swelling, bacteria, and so on.
While these problems aren’t a big deal, they can get worse as time goes by, so be careful not to neglect your dental health while pregnant.
Tooth Extractions: Why Postponing Isn’t a Good Idea
Any procedure can be risky when you’re pregnant, hence many are postponed. So, if a procedure isn’t necessary you can wait until after you give birth. However, waiting can be painful in many cases – which calls for emergency procedures.
Tooth extraction is for example one such procedure where the pros of extracting your tooth outweigh the cons of waiting. After all, a bad tooth can have an effect on your overall health. Such an untreated infection can cause further problems, and even make you sick. Additionally, postponing such a procedure and letting the bad tooth stick around can damage your gums and the surrounding teeth.
What Is the Best Trimester for Tooth Extraction?
Can you get a tooth pulled while pregnant first trimester? And, can you get a tooth pulled while pregnant third trimester? What about the second? These questions will definitely arise if you’re facing a tooth problem. However, what is the proper answer?
Well, to put it simply, if a procedure is necessary, it’s not important which trimester you’re in, it will need to be done either way.
However, ideally, the second trimester is the best for this type of procedure. The first can be risky, due to fetal development, and during the third, you might feel uncomfortable laying still on your back for longer time periods. But, as we’ve mentioned, emergencies won’t really ask what time is best for you.
Are X-Rays Safe?
X-rays are usually necessary for tooth extractions. But are they safe? Well, as it turns out, they are. Of course, risks in all forms are best avoided, however despite usually being postponed until after pregnancy, x-rays are generally considered safe.
One x-ray won’t have enough radiation to cause any harm to your health or your baby’s health. Additionally, your dentist will provide you with measures to lower the risk level even more.
Is Anaesthesia Safe?
X-rays get a green light, but what about anesthesia? Well, anesthesia also gets the green light – almost. Before saying anesthesia is safe it’s important to preface that not all forms of it are. Local anesthesia, for example, is totally fine. Though general anesthesia and sedation are usually advised against.
The best thing to do, for your own peace of mind, is to talk to both your health provider and your dentist about these things before considering anything.
Safe Post-extraction Pain Relief Options
The post-extraction period can be rather painful, so looking at pain relief options may be necessary. But, which pain relief options are safe?
Well, your safest bet is acetaminophen (Tylenol). In fact, acetaminophen is the only over-the-counter pain relief option that can be used throughout the entire pregnancy, since it’s both effective and doesn’t cause harm to the baby.
Other options that you can use are Ibuprofen or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, however, these options are only considered safe during the first thirty weeks of your pregnancy.
Again, be sure to discuss everything with your medical health professional first, it’s better to be safe at the end of the day.
Prevention Is the Best Medicine
While the risks of tooth extraction are outweighed by the risks of not getting one, the best thing to do is to prevent the need for this procedure altogether. And the way to do that is by practicing good oral hygiene.
Proper oral hygiene goes a long way, but what does it include? Well, most importantly it includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and never going to bed without your teeth washed. We know that midnight cravings are at an all-time high during pregnancy – and that’s all fine and good – but never forget to wash your teeth after indulging in some late-night snacks.
Secondly, don’t forget about your biannual dental cleanings, pregnancy shouldn’t be a reason to put your dental habits on the backburner. After all, as long as you maintain healthy habits, your oral health won’t be a problem.
The Conclusion
Let’s run through everything real quick once again. Tooth removal during pregnancy will definitely be anything but fun, however, thankfully, it’s considered rather safe. And, so are x-rays and select types of anesthesia.
Ideally, it’s best to wait until after pregnancy to undergo certain procedures, but if the problems you’re facing can create additional issues, it’s best to take care of them as soon as possible. As we’ve already stressed, emergencies aren’t that considerate when it comes to timing.
Most importantly, be sure to inform yourself and also discuss everything with your obstetrics and gynecology professional, and have a talk with your dentist as well. With the proper information and good organization, everything should be able to go smoothly.