Dental care in the second trimester: anesthesia and X-rays
Many dental treatments, including fillings and tooth extractions when needed, are usually possible in the second trimester. Local anesthesia and dental X-rays are used when clinically necessary, and your dentist and OB-GYN can help plan the care together.
Why the second trimester is often a good time for dental care
In the second trimester, many pregnant people have less nausea and fatigue, and the baby's major organs have already formed. For this reason, planned dental treatment is often scheduled during this time, especially when waiting could allow a problem to get worse.
What is usually considered safe
- Local anesthesia is commonly used during dental work to control pain. It numbs only the treated area, which helps the procedure go more comfortably.
- Anesthetics that contain epinephrine are often used as well. Your dentist may choose a type based on your blood pressure, allergies, the size of the procedure, and your overall health.
- Dental X-rays can be done when they are needed for an accurate diagnosis. The radiation dose from a dental X-ray is very low, and many providers consider it safe during pregnancy. Elective X-rays can often wait until after delivery.
- Some offices still use a lead apron or thyroid collar. Abdominal shielding is not considered necessary for dental X-rays, so ask your dentist what their office routinely does.
Always tell your dentist that you are pregnant, how far along you are, and what medicines and supplements you take. Many providers recommend checking with your OB-GYN before any non-urgent treatment, especially if you have a health condition such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
Learn more
- NIH: Pregnancy (NICHD)
- CDC: Pregnancy
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