A Root Canal can save a badly abscess or infected tooth from extraction. However, is it a safe treatment when pregnant?

Many pregnant women are worried of the risks involved in a root canal treatment because they think it might affect the baby in their womb. Obstetricians advise avoiding exposure to such risks regardless if the risk is minimal. The best course of action is to postpone any kind of dental treatment until after birth. But, there are situations where delaying the therapy can do more harm than good.

When you are pregnant, you need to worry about your baby. But you still have to be wary of your own life. Getting a root canal treatment comes with some risks that may affect the safety of your developing child

  • X-rays are required to determine the orientation and condition of the roots of the tooth. X-rays are known to harm the fetus, but the radiation coming from the x-ray is directly to the jaw, not on the abdomen. The risk of x rays on your baby for this treatment is low.
  • Another common fear is the tension of being operated upon could affect the baby. There shouldn’t be any tension that could affect the baby in any way.
  • Antibiotics are rarely prescribed for this treatment. If the patient needs antibiotic and is pregnant, dentists will prescribe one that is safe for the baby.

Read important tips to care for your temporary crowns

Risks of Not Having an RCT during Pregnancy

If the dental specialist suggests a root canal treatment or any other Endodontics treatments even when pregnant, it means that urgent attention is needed and the treatment can no longer be postponed as it can pose a much higher risk. The risks associated with the procedure are:

Pain. The pain is so severe and only when the tooth abscess is treated when it will be gone. Continuous pain during pregnancy can be stressful and it can pose negative effects to the mother and the fetus.

Infection. If there is an infection in the tooth, your dental expert will suggest an immediate RCT. If it is left untreated, the infection could spread throughout your body which can result in more severe complications.

How to Avoid Tooth Decay?

Our dental team is highly equipped to take care of you and your baby during a root canal therapy. We’ll take all the needed precautionary measures to avoid complications during pregnancy.

  • Getting a root canal treatment during the first trimester is not recommended except when it is extremely necessary. This is the period of childbirth where the baby is most susceptible. If it is needed, the root canal can be opened and drained.
  • Root canal in the 2nd trimester is possible if needed. The procedure will pose no risk for the unborn child.
  • Root canal during the third trimester should be thought of carefully. Since delivery of the baby is not very far, it is possible to delay the treatment. The procedure should be delayed when seven months pregnant, and the operation should also be delayed when the woman is eight months pregnant.

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