Can Pregnant People Get Dental X-Rays?

If you’re expecting a child, ensuring their and your body’s health is probably one of your top priorities. Because of that, you’re probably constantly having exams, from regular visits to the gynecologist, ultrasounds every few months, and even dental check-ups with advanced dental care in Montgomery, AL.  

While often overlooked, maintaining optimal dental health is important during pregnancy, and dental X-rays are fundamental to this. Expecting parents, though, are understandably fearful of the potential risks related to radiography during pregnancy.

Why Is it Okay for Pregnant People to Get Dental X-Rays

Oral health care is safe at any stage of pregnancy, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Local anesthesia and dental radiographs are included in this.

Furthermore, emergency restorations can be safely carried out during pregnancy, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). These restorations include:

• Dental extractions
• Root canals
• Tooth restorations
• Periodontal treatment
• Cavities

Although ACOG advises against elective non-obstetric general surgery and certain invasive procedures, like a colonoscopy, until after delivery, they state that oral conditions that need to be treated right away can be treated at any point during pregnancy.  

This broad consensus on the safety of dental procedures exists because postponing care could lead to more complicated issues, especially as some hormonal changes during pregnancy can make a person less resilient to possible dental problems.

Why Is Prompt Dental Care During Pregnancy Important?

Several body and mental changes make pregnant people more prone to gum disease and tooth decay. This is known as “pregnancy gum disease,” and it’s extremely common, affecting 60% to 75% of pregnant people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The exact reason why pregnant people become more prone to gum disease has not yet been discovered. However, it’s believed to be associated with an increase in estrogen and progesterone levels—essential hormones that help the fetus grow.

• Changing hormones leads to increased blood volume, which fosters inflammation of your gums.
• Another consequence of changing hormone levels is a decreased ability to respond to plaque bacteria.
• Cravings can lead to dietary changes that increase parent’s sugar intake, which can foster tooth decay.
• Additionally, morning sickness can contribute to eroding tooth enamel over time, making them more prone to cavities.

If left untreated, gum disease can cause very serious issues, such as dental sensitivity and, eventually, tooth loss. However, the risks are higher among expectant mothers.

Several studies have found out gum disease is a separate risk factor for low birth weight (less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces) in babies and a potential cause for preterm labor (before 37 weeks).

Get Safe and Advanced Dental Care in Montgomery, AL

Gum disease is a prevalent but mostly avoidable ailment where plaque bacteria inflame the gums and damage the tissues that support the teeth. Early on, its symptoms might not be noticeable, which is why routine dental care is essential.

Here at Woodmere Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we have advanced, safe equipment and qualified professionals capable of examining your oral health and promptly treating any issues we may identify. If you’re due for a dental check-up this year, reach out!