Millions of people turn to dental sedation when feeling anxious about their upcoming appointments. Nerves, sensitive gag reflexes, and the inability to sit still are all valid reasons for healthy individuals to seek sedation to make visits more comfortable. But what about pregnant women? Although they, too, may be healthy, can these medications cause problems for the mother and her baby? Keep reading to discover what experts recommend when it comes to sedation and pregnancy.
How Safe is Sedation Dentistry for Pregnant Women?
Generally, dental sedation is not recommended for pregnant women. There are several reasons why it should not be administered, but the most common is that certain medications provided can be harmful to the baby.
Each trimester is different, which means that although it may be safer to receive sedation during the second trimester, it’s still largely avoided.
What Can Happen During Pregnancy?
During the first trimester, dentists do not recommend that women receive sedation because the medicine can travel through to the placenta and cause developmental issues that affect the baby. Dentists also do not provide sedation during the third trimester because it can increase the risk of preterm labor.
What about the second trimester? Although safer, it is still best to wait until the baby is born before undergoing any dental procedure. If this is not possible, a dentist will discuss the use of milder sedatives, such as nitrous oxide.
What About Local Anesthesia?
Unlike dental sedation, local anesthesia is perfectly safe to use during pregnancy. It only numbs your mouth so that you do not feel any pain throughout the procedure. This is good news, especially if you cannot wait to receive the dental care you need.
Pregnancy & Your Oral Health
Most importantly, maintaining good oral health is crucial while pregnant. Problems such as gum disease are common among women who are carrying a child. Treating bleeding and swollen gums before symptoms worsen is essential if more extensive treatment is to be avoided. Fortunately, improving gum health does not necessarily require local anesthesia or sedation (if you are not fearful of dental care).
If you are nervous about a procedure, there are other ways to calm your nerves, such as deep breathing exercises, guided imagery, or even listening to music.
Staying on top of your oral health while pregnant is important, but if you are anxious or nervous about visiting your dentist, make sure to ask about alternative sedation methods to ensure you get the treatment you need.
About the Author
Dr. Ira Goldberg has been treating patients in the area for more than three decades. Offering dental sedation to nervous patients, he ensures a safe, calming experience, regardless of whether a patient is pregnant. If those methods are not available, he will recommend alternative solutions to better protect the mother and her baby. With extensive experience and training, Dr. Goldberg can help patients stay relaxed and at ease in the treatment chair. If you are nervous about your visit and are pregnant, contact us at (973) 313–5314 to schedule an appointment.