Pregnancy is a special period in a woman’s life. During this time, hormonal and immune changes occur, along with dietary adjustments. All of this significantly affects overall health, increasing the risk of dental diseases and complications.
In the past, dental treatment was considered risky. Today, however, dentists worldwide agree: “If a tooth hurts during pregnancy, it must be treated!”
Dental Conditions That Must Be Treated During Pregnancy
Here are the conditions that should never be ignored, regardless of the stage of pregnancy:
- Cavities – If left untreated, the infection can not only destroy the tooth but also spread to neighboring teeth. Cavities must be treated at any stage to prevent pulp inflammation.
- Pulpitis – This condition must be treated. A complete diagnosis may require an X-ray, which is permissible during pregnancy. X-rays are safe for the fetus, but doctors perform them only when necessary.
- Gingivitis – A dangerous condition. Acute dental pain during pregnancy is a minor issue compared to gum inflammation, which requires prompt treatment.
- Stomatitis – While not seriously threatening to the mother’s health, oral ulcers can cause severe pain comparable to inflamed pulp.
- Tooth Extraction – A surgical procedure, generally avoided during pregnancy. Extraction is a last resort, needed only in cases of severe tooth destruction or crown fracture.
If extraction is necessary, dentists choose pregnancy-safe anesthetics such as lidocaine or articaine. For tooth pain, paracetamol is recommended, while ibuprofen is allowed only in the second trimester.
Contraindications and Restrictions
Some procedures are prohibited during pregnancy:
- Implants – Immune system changes can reduce the success of implant integration. Additionally, post-implant recovery requires medications not safe during pregnancy.
- Teeth Whitening – Whitening procedures weaken enamel, which is risky during pregnancy as the results can be unpredictable.
Dental Treatment by Trimester
Pregnancy lasts nine months and is divided into three trimesters, each with specific dental treatment guidelines:
- First Trimester (up to 12 weeks) – Critical organ formation occurs, and the placenta is not fully protective. Dental treatment is generally avoided unless there is acute pain.
- Second Trimester (13–24 weeks) – The placenta is fully developed, providing reliable protection. This is the optimal time for safe dental treatments.
- Third Trimester (25 weeks to birth) – The body prepares for childbirth, tissues are more sensitive, and immunity is weakened. Non-urgent dental treatment should be postponed unless acute pain or complications arise.
If you are planning pregnancy, it is advisable to complete dental treatments, professional cleaning, and any necessary therapies beforehand. Preventive care helps avoid complications during pregnancy.
