Can I get a root canal if I’m pregnant? What you need to know
Pregnancy comes with a lot of changes, questions and sometimes unexpected challenges—including dental problems. If you have an infected tooth while pregnant, you might wonder if you can undergo a root canal safely. After all, your health and your baby’s health are priorities. In this blog post, we’ll answer common questions about whether you can get a root canal while pregnant, discuss safety concerns like X-rays and anesthesia and explore when a root canal might be necessary.
Are root canals safe during pregnancy?
Yes, root canals are generally safe during pregnancy when handled with proper care by an endodontist. But, out of an abundance of caution, Dr. Francisco Nieves here at Granbury Endodontics will usually suggest waiting until the second trimester of your pregnancy before performing root canal therapy.
The two main safety concerns when undergoing a root canal during pregnancy are X-rays and anesthesia. Once Dr. Nieves discusses what to expect from the procedure and how we'll work to provide you the best possible care, he'll review how we'll manage both X-rays and anesthesia related to your specific case. Here’s how each one is managed to protect expecting mothers and their babies:
X-rays during pregnancy
Dental X-rays are necessary to diagnose an infected root canal. The good news is that modern X-rays are quite safe, even during pregnancy. Endodontists take extra precautions to safeguard you and your baby by:
Using protective aprons and collars, like a lead-free apron with a thyroid collar
Employing low-dose radiation techniques
Taking only essential images to minimize exposure
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) confirms that dental X-rays with these safety measures are not harmful during pregnancy. It’s always a good idea to discuss any concerns with your dentist or OB-GYN beforehand.
Anesthesia while pregnant
Anesthesia is a critical part of ensuring comfort during a root canal. At Granbury Endodontics, nearly all root canal therapy cases focus solely on local anesthestics. Local anesthetics like lidocaine are considered safe for pregnant women when administered correctly. And, since these numbing agents work locally, meaning they don’t affect the baby.
Your dentist will carefully select and monitor the dose to keep you comfortable without compromising safety. For some patients, mild sedation may be considered, but this is typically avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.
When is a root canal necessary during pregnancy?
A root canal becomes necessary when the pulp inside your tooth (the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels) becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to deep cavities, cracks in the tooth or repeated dental procedures. Signs that you might need a root canal include:
Persistent toothache or sensitivity
Swelling or tenderness in your gums
Darkening of the tooth
A pimple-like bump on your gum that doesn’t go away
Leaving an infected root canal untreated can lead to severe complications like abscesses, swelling, and even the risk of the infection spreading to other parts of your body. For pregnant women, untreated infections can also increase the risk of pregnancy complications like preterm labor. Addressing the issue with a root canal is often the best choice for your overall health, and as mentioned above, Dr. Nieves and our staff will likely schedule your root canal therapy for your second trimester.
Your oral health matters—for you and your baby
Pregnancy is a time when your body is working overtime, and your oral health is no exception. If you’re dealing with an infected tooth while pregnant, getting timely treatment is crucial for your health and your baby’s well-being.
At Granbury Endodontics, we understand the unique challenges that come with pregnancy and dental care. Our experienced team is here to answer your questions, ease your concerns and provide the best care in Granbury tailored to your needs. If you think you might need a root canal while pregnant, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help.