Sedation dentistry has allowed millions of patients to sit calmly and comfortably through routine dental appointments as well as intensive or prolonged procedures despite anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or difficulty sitting still. However, receiving dental sedation while pregnant can carry certain risks. Here’s a brief guide to dental sedation, how it can affect pregnant women, and what your dentist can do to ensure your comfort.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for Pregnant Women?
Dental sedation may be safe for a pregnant patient depending on the trimester and the medication being taken. Experts typically recommend abstaining from dental sedation unless you are in your second trimester, and it’s best to stick to less intensive treatments like nitrous oxide. During the first trimester, the baby is still forming its vital organs, so the risk of dental sedation resulting in complications or long-term side effects is greater. Receiving sedation during the third trimester may result in premature labor.
Before receiving dental sedation treatment, consult with your obstetrician-gynecologist to ensure that you can receive it safely.
Is Local Anesthesia Safe for Pregnant Women?
Local anesthetics are numbing agents used to reduce the sensation of pain in treated areas. The most common local anesthetic used in dentistry is lidocaine, which is safe for pregnant patients since it is fast-acting and doesn’t have any side effects. When you receive a local anesthetic, your dentist will monitor you to ensure your safety and comfort while you receive needed dental care.
What Forms of Dental Sedation Are Available?
Dental Sedation typically comes in one of three forms, those being:
- Nitrous oxide: Also called “laughing gas,” this colorless and odorless gas is mixed with oxygen and administered to the nose through a mask attached to a hose. This treatment can reduce a patient’s awareness of pain and help them stay still, and its effects wear off within minutes after the patient stops receiving the gas.
- IV sedation: By administering a sedative through a vein, a dentist can help a patient remain calm and relaxed despite severe dental anxiety. The patient will still be able to respond to questions and instructions, but they may have difficulty remembering the procedure afterward and will need a trusted individual to drive them home.
Pregnant women are more likely to develop oral infections like gum disease. It’s important to receive excellent dental care and practice superior oral hygiene when you’re expecting to ensure your health and that of your baby, and consulting with your dentist may help you find a sedation treatment suitable for you.
About the Author
Dr. Andrea Csok earned her dental degree at the Ohio State University College of Dentistry and has completed many hours of continuing education. She is proud to hold memberships in the American Dental Association, the Ohio Dental Association, the Academy of Laser Dentistry, and the Greater Cleveland Dental Society. Her Cleveland office offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental sedation treatments. To learn more about sedation dentistry, contact her office online or dial (216) 292-3600.