When a woman becomes pregnant, she receives a lot of information about what to do and what is best to avoid.
The truth is that this is a period in which the mother must be careful and pay attention when it comes to ingesting certain products or undergoing some treatments.
Today, we will refer specifically to dental x-rays and whether you should do it during the baby’s development.
Should dental x-rays be done during pregnancy?
According to the American Dental Association, the American College of Radiology, and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, having an X-ray during pregnancy is safe.
Many women avoid having x-rays because they think the radiation emitted by this diagnostic test can negatively affect the development of the fetus.
In the case of X-rays, it is crucial to note that the only part exposed will be the mouth, so this possibility is remote.
Additionally, when you conduct a dental X-ray, it is essential to provide a lead apron and a thyroid collar to the patient.
However, if you require more information, the ideal situation is always to talk with the dentist about your fears and what would be the most appropriate options in your case.
Tips for safe dental x-rays
- Tell your dentist or x-ray technician that you are or could be pregnant.
- Keep a record of your X-ray history. Detail the type and date of the exam, who ordered the test, and the medical centre where you get it.
- Ask your dentist to use type E or F speed films on your X-rays. Compared to D speed, they are much faster, have less radiation, and have similar costs and benefits.
- Because the most significant fetal development occurs primarily in the first three months and the second half of the third trimester, we suggest you schedule dental visits during the second trimester.
- If it is possible to postpone procedures until after the pregnancy, do so. If you have an emergency as a displaced tooth or an injury to the gum, seek help immediately. If the procedures are more aesthetic such as orthodontics or tooth whitening, the ideal is to do it after delivery.
- Let your specialist know if you are receiving radiation therapy. Also, let them know how much radiation you and your baby have received.
What to tell your dentist?
In general, dentists recommend having dental x-rays because they believe it is a more beneficial method for your health regarding the risks involved.
Approximately 40% of women may suffer from gum disease while pregnant. You should treat this affection because it can pose risks to both the mother and the baby since bacteria can lodge in the bloodstream and cause complications.
In addition, there appears to be a correlation between gum infections and preterm birth.
The ideal is to work together with the specialist so that they give you the pertinent indications and all the information you need about your health and your child’s.
Until our next article!
