Is Root Canal Treatment Safe in Pregnancy?

Pregnancy may make you more susceptible to infections but it does not mean that pregnancy causes any of these problems. If you already have dental issues or you are prone to dental problems then these problems may aggravate in pregnancy.

Some aggravated dental issues may require immediate medical attention such as a root canal treatment. But can you get a root canal while pregnant? Root canal treatment does not pose a serious threat or risk to you or your baby but before you consider this treatment, you should know about the possible risks associated with it.

Risks Associated with Root Canal while Pregnant

Here are some risks involved with root canal treatment in pregnancy:

1. The Effect of X-Ray

To have a comprehensive view of your cavity, your doctor will require you to undergo an X-ray of the infected tooth. Any type of X-ray exposure is not recommended in pregnancy. But the dental X-ray radiations do not pose any risk to your unborn baby. They are localized to your mouth only and not the abdominal region. The medicines used in the process and later given for healing may cause more harm to your baby.

• The Effects of Anaesthesia

It is not possible to do a root canal treatment without the anaesthesia. The doctor usually gives a very small dosage of it and may give more if required. However, it is the pain that is experienced during the process that may cause stress to the pregnant woman, may become a cause for concern. Any kind of unnecessary stress in pregnancy is not good your unborn baby.

• The Effects of Other Chemicals

Your doctor may make use of various cleaning chemicals during the root canal treatment and also use other chemical material for the filling of the tooth. Both these chemicals usually are not detrimental to the foetal health and well-being.

• The Effects of Antibiotics

You will be prescribed a course of antibiotic medicine after your root canal treatment is over. This medicine is given to take care of the healing and negate the possibility of any infection getting caused due to the treatment.

Risks of Avoiding or Postponing

If you are thinking of postponing the root canal procedure, you should reconsider. This is because the problems associated with not getting the treatment are much higher than getting the treatment done.

Here are some problems that you may face if you plan to postpone your treatment:

1. The Infection May Spread

The tooth that requires the root canal treatment is already infected. If you delay the treatment the infection may increase. It might spread to other teeth or gums also. This can lead to more problems and complications.

1. There’ll be Prolonged Intense Pain

Untreated tooth cavity can cause severe pain and distress to an expecting mother. Constant pain and discomfort may cause stress and such condition may cause adverse effects on your baby too.

Best Strategies to undergo

Your dentist may recommend the following options to you for dental root canal treatment during pregnancy:

• The first trimester is a crucial period of pregnancy. If any dental problem is observed during this time, your doctor may recommend postponing it. They suggest it until you start with your second trimester.
• Once you are in your second trimester, your doctor may recommend getting an X-ray of the infected tooth. They’ll then start the root canal treatment. If root canal is required during 3rd trimester, your doctor may recommend postponed it.

On your first visit itself you should mention it to your dentist that you are pregnant. This makes your dentist more aware of your condition and helps him make the best possible treatment strategy for you.

Tips to Prevent

Any kind of medical procedure can be daunting for an expecting mother. Thus best way to deal with is to avoid getting into such situations. We shall discuss some tips that may help you to avoid or prevent getting a root canal treatment during pregnancy:

• The foremost thing that you can do to prevent any kind of dental infection is by keeping good dental hygiene. Stick to your dental hygiene schedule and brush and floss twice daily to keep dental problems at bay.
• Avoid eating food items with high sugar content. Foods that have more sugar content are the main reasons for a dental cavity. If you have the urge or craving to eat them, then you should brush your teeth after eating sugary food.
• It is also seen that pregnancy hormones may affect your dental health. You should visit your dentist regularly to get your teeth and gums checked. Regular dental check-ups reduce your chances of having any infections or cavities. Thus reducing your chances of getting any root canal treatment.

Keep yourself healthy during pregnancy for the better growth and development of your unborn baby. This includes taking care of your dental issues as well. Dental issues shouldn’t be taken lightly. As soon as you notice any problem you should get in touch with your doctor. Timely treatment and medical intervention can save you from any severe problems or complications that may arise.

For pregnancy-related queries, find more details on our gynaecology or maternity department. You can also book an appointment now & avail video/teleconsultation.