Dentistry During Pregnancy

Recently, the California Dental Association Foundation published guidelines for providing dental care during pregnancy.  Its report stated: "Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases, including needed dental radiographs and the use of local anesthesia, are highly beneficial and can be undertaken during pregnancy with no additional fetal or maternal risk when compared to the risk of not providing care.  Good oral health and control of oral disease protects a woman's health and quality of life; and has the potential to reduce the transmission of pathogenic bacteria from mothers to their children."
Local anesthetic (lidocaine with epinephrine), analgesics such as ibuprophen, and antibioitics (penicillin and cephalosporin) are commonly considered safe for use during pregnancy.  Shorter appointments are recommended.  Strict oral hygiene therapy can prevent pregnancy gingivitis and other oral manifestations of changed hormone levels.  Sedative agents, centrally acting analgesics (opiates) and nitrous oxide are not recommended.

From:  Re-evaluating Therapeutic Drugs for Pregnant Dental Patients, Inside Dentistry, March, 2013

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309