What to Know About Dental X-Rays When Pregnant

There are many things that you have been told that you should avoid while you are pregnant. You may be wondering if it is safe for you to get a dental x-ray when pregnant. It is a good idea to consult with your doctor before you get a dental x-ray or any other type of x-ray. However, the American Dental Association, American College of Radiology, and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology say that it is safe for women to get an x-ray during pregnancy.

Radiation Concerns

One of the reasons that many women do not want to get a dental x-ray is because they are concerned about radiation exposure. The only part of your body that will be exposed to radiation during the x-ray is your mouth. You will also receive a lead apron to protect you and your baby. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology has stated that dental x-rays do not produce enough radiation to harm an embryo or a fetus.

What Does the Research Say?

You will have to be exposed to a lot of radiation during pregnancy in order for it to harm a developing baby. The amount of radiation that one is exposed to during a standard dental x-ray is .02mSV radiation. You will have to be exposed to at least 2,500 times that amount in order for you or your baby to be harmed by it.

It is also important to note that the small amount of radiation that you are exposed to will only be in your mouth. The baby will not be exposed to it.

Can You Get a Dental X-Ray While You Are Nursing?

Many nursing mothers wonder whether they should get an x-ray while they are nursing. Experts say that it is safe for you to get a dental x-ray if you are breastfeeding. There have not been any studies done to show that the radiation passes through the breast milk.

What to Say to Your Dentist

Dentists recommend that you get dental x-rays because they believe that the benefits outweigh the risks. Keeping your mouth healthy is one of the things that you can do to maintain a healthy pregnancy. A dental x-ray can detect early signs of tooth decay and gum disease.

It is estimated that 40 percent of women have gum disease while they are pregnant. This has to be treated because it can be harmful to both mom and baby. The bacteria can end up in the bloodstream and cause complications. While research is still ongoing, some studies have suggested that gum infections are linked to premature delivery.

You will need to let your dentist know if you are pregnant. Everyone should wear a lead apron during an x-ray. Lead aprons have been shown to block radiation exposure by 90 percent.

The American Dental Association has also recommended that everyone wear a neck collar in order to protect the thyroid. Because dental x-rays are typically only recommended once a year, you will probably only need one during pregnancy. However, your oral care needs will determine how often you need to get a dental x-ray.

In general, it is safe for you to get a dental x-ray at any point during your pregnancy. However, if you need dental work done, then it is best for you to get the work done during the second trimester. If you have more questions about oral health care and pregnancy, please consult your doctor and set up an appointment at your local Fortson Dentistry location in Berkley or Lathrup Village.