Pregnancy is a wonderful experience and the most exhilarating time in one’s life. However, it can involve uncertainty and precaution. Pregnant women are often considered “at-risk” for a variety of reasons. All moms immediately start wondering about the safety of their babies and what they can and can’t do. The question of the safety of sedation dentistry does come up during pregnancy. Our experts are here to answer your question.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry includes medications to help you relax and alleviate stress and anxiety. It keeps you comfortable, and it is beneficial for people undergoing complex procedures of lengthy treatment. Dentists often use different levels of sedation depending on your needs, length of your procedure, health history, and personal preferences.

General anesthesia.
Deep sedation.
Moderate sedation or conscious sedation.
Minimal sedation.

The most common types of sedation include:

Nitrous oxide
Oral conscious sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation.

With sedation dentistry, you will be conscious but carefree and relaxed. This will help you feel comfort and relief, and you won’t worry about the dental procedure.

Avoid Sedation During Pregnancy

Many medications used in sedation dentistry aren’t considered safe during pregnancy. Also, other substances used for sedation, such as nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, can pose a risk to your fetus. If you need dental work but it is not urgent, your dentist may recommend putting it off until after your pregnancy.

During your first trimester, while your baby is developing vital organs, it is best to avoid any sedation. The use of local anesthesia in the first trimester is safe, but it is best to consult the dentist and if they recommend waiting until once the baby has developed most of its organs, it is best to follow their instructions.

What To Do In An Emergency Case?

In case of a dental emergency or issues where you do require immediate treatment, you can always talk to the dentist and discuss safer sedatives that will be used during the procedure. Generally, sedation dentistry during pregnancy should be only used during procedures where it is expected that you will feel significant pain, stress, or fear.

The dentist will choose the best and the safest sedative to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure and your little one is also safe. Most times, the dentist will stick to local anesthesia and refrain from using dental sedation.

Local Anesthesia Is Safe

Local anesthesia is considered safe to use for pregnant women. This means you can still be pain-free during the dental procedure, and you don’t have to worry about it affecting your baby. During most procedures, the dentist will numb the area of the mouth that requires treatment with injections or a topical anesthetic. Routine dental procedures like cleanings and gum therapy are safe and even necessary during pregnancy. It doesn’t even require local anesthesia or dental sedation.

Caring for Your Smile During Pregnancy

If you are worried about the risks associated with dental sedation, don’t make the mistake of not going to the dentist or ignoring the dental issues. Pregnancy itself presents its own challenges to oral health, for instance, hormone fluctuations often increase the risk of gum disease. So, when you visit the dentist, make sure you let them know you are pregnant so they will take the necessary precautions. They will do everything they can to make you comfortable during your procedure and ensure the safety of your child.
Make sure you follow a good oral routine by brushing your teeth twice every day and flossing once daily. Also, use mouthwash to wash away all the bacteria. Use fluoride-based products like toothpaste and mouthwash to strengthen your teeth and reduce your risk of decay and gum disease. It’s best if you use an electric toothbrush as it will do a more effective job of cleaning your gums, teeth, and tongue. It will also become easier for you to clean every nook and cranny that your regular toothbrush can’t reach.

Oral health plays an important role in your overall health, therefore, it is important to regularly visit the best periodontist in Houston, TX, to prevent any oral issues from arising, especially during pregnancy. Pregnancy can be difficult, which is why it is best to consult a good dentist who will guide you throughout your journey and ensure the safety of your little one.