Issues that must be considered
Here are some of the issues that must be taken into consideration when root canal treatment is planned for a pregnant woman:
The use of radiographs (x-rays).
When utilizing modern radiographic technique, and standard radiation protection (including the use of a leaded apron and thyroid collar), the dental x-rays needed to perform root canal treatment should not place a patient's fetus at risk. However, it is likely that the dentist will strive to keep the number of x-rays taken to a minimum.
Appointment length and number of visits.
It may be difficult for a pregnant patient to remain physically comfortable while sitting in their dentist's dental chair. Instead of one relatively longer appointment, their root canal treatment may need to be divided up into two or more shorter visits.
Treatment timing.
In those situations where the patient is experiencing discomfort or has signs of an active infection, immediate attention may be required. In cases where urgency is less of an issue, the treating dentist may prefer to delay the patient's endodontic therapy until a particular trimester (typically the second), or wait until after their child has been delivered.
The use of medications.
A patient's pregnancy will influence the selection of medications used for their treatment.
As an example, root canal treatment typically requires the use of a local anesthetic (the medicine that is used to "numb up" a tooth). A few different types of anesthetics have been approved by the FDA for use with pregnant women. And, in fact, they are typically found and routinely used in essentially all dental offices.
RISK FACTORS
A root canal is not really have a direct effect on the fetus during pregnancy. Although the film is necessary to examine the tooth, the radiation in question is minimal and x-rays are directed towards the mouth and not the abdomen.
Other possible sources of risk associated with root canal treatment are: anesthesia. Dentists often use small amount of anesthesia to pregnant women.
But if the dose is not sufficient to alleviate the pain of the patient, the dose may be increased gradually. As the tension of the dental procedure has a detrimental effect on the baby, additional anesthesia is preferable to allow the stress affects the baby.
Or antibiotics. They are often prescribed by dentists to fight infection after dental procedure. However, they do not prescribe antibiotics that are safe for pregnant women.
** How to be a safe treatment during pregnancy
When your dentist recommends a root canal, be sure to let you know you are pregnant. This allows you to make the right decisions about how and processing time. Often the first quarter is the most crucial. This is when the fetus begins to develop. If there is no need to rush in treatment may be postponed until the second trimester or after delivery. However, if treatment should be done immediately, inform the dentist of your situation will help the process as safe as possible.