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Can You Have an Oral Surgery While Pregnant?
Posted on 9/16/2024 by Dr. Michael Allard
Oral surgery can be safely performed during pregnancy, but it is not always recommended. While dental care is vital for pregnant women due to its impact on the overall health of both mother and baby, oral surgery might be excessive for several reasons. Before considering oral surgery while pregnant, there are a few essential things you should do.
Notify Your Dentist of Your Pregnancy
The first step is to inform your doctor that you are pregnant. This allows the doctor to evaluate your mouth more carefully, as some treatments might need to be postponed until after pregnancy. Pregnant women are more prone to cavities due to several factors. The increased carbohydrate intake while feeding two can lead to more bacteria and infections in the mouth. Additionally, morning sickness, which is common during pregnancy, can increase the amount of acid your mouth is exposed to, further contributing to dental issues. You may also suffer from other unrelated conditions that could affect surgery, such as high blood pressure.
Get Surgery During the First Trimester
Oral surgeries are generally safest during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. Surgeries in the third trimester are usually avoided unless necessary. This guideline applies to all types of surgeries, not just those involving the mouth. It is essential to consider the specific nature of the surgery. For instance, even if a patient is in the first trimester, it might be better to delay the surgery until after the baby is born if it requires heavy sedation.
The Ideal Time for Oral Surgery
Ideally, all dental work should be completed before you enter the pregnancy phase. If you are planning to get pregnant, visit your oral surgeon soon. They can identify issues that need immediate attention and determine which ones can wait. It is usually best to take care of any necessary surgery immediately.
If you are pregnant and need oral surgery, do not shy away from giving it a try. Visit us today or give us a call to learn more about oral surgery during pregnancy, and we will guide you accordingly.