Many women balk at the thought of having a dental x-ray when they are pregnant, but sometimes they are necessary. Dr. Mark Gustavson is a partner at Affiliated Dentists in Madison, Wisconsin, and explains here why they can be safe when done at the right time, using the right protective measures to protect both the woman and her unborn baby.
Dental radiographs, which is what dentists call dental x-rays, during pregnancy are usually something we try to avoid. But in cases of emergencies, where there is concern for either infection or pain, we do radiographs on pregnant women, taking the necessary precautions.
That’s because the amount of radiation in a dental x-ray is minimal. And the chances for any kind of radiation problem with the unborn child are small, so the risk is virtually miniscule. It is more dangerous to both the woman and her unborn child for her to have a dental infection that is left untreated.
Protective Measures
If a radiograph needs to be taken, a lead apron should be used at all times to protect the fetus, and also to protect the woman’s thyroid. Ideally, a woman who is pregnant, or a woman who thinks she may be pregnant, should also wear a thyroid collar to protect her thyroid gland, at least during the early months of pregnancy.
As dentists, we are much more worried about radiographs in the first three months of pregnancy, rather than the second or third trimester, as really development of the fetal organs is much more of a worry when it comes to radiation. So most dental work, if needed to be done, is usually done in the second or third trimester, when most of the baby’s development is complete and the baby is just growing inside.
Second Trimester Best
Usually, the second trimester is considered the best time for a pregnant woman to have dental x-rays or radiographs carried out. This is not just the best time for the unborn child, but also because during that time a woman is past her morning sickness phase, but usually comfortable enough to be in the dental chair for a short period of time.
Normal diagnostic or clinical radiographics for just regular check-up pictures are usually avoided to limit radiation to the unborn child and the mother. But a woman should not be concerned or worried if a small number of radiographs need to be taken. The small dose of radiation is much less of an problem or a risk than a larger infection that might occur in the mouth could be. The mouth is connected to the body, and those infections can effect the growth and the development of the unborn child.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
