Franklin 
It goes without saying that it’s incredibly important to be careful with your health, diet, and lifestyle during pregnancy, including environmental exposures like dental X-rays. But what happens if you have a dental emergency during pregnancy such as an injury or severe toothache? Will a dentist in Tyler need to take X-rays and, if so, are they safe? These are very common questions among expectant mothers, and, in this blog, you’ll find answers!
In General, Why Are Dental X-Rays Necessary?
During an exam, a dentist visually inspects your mouth. But they can’t see anything underneath the surface of your teeth, soft tissues, and jaws. X-rays show them what they can’t see with the naked eye.
Routine X-rays are used to find problems as early as possible, including cavities, cysts, and tumors in the jaw, and even bone loss (a sign of gum disease).
Other types of X-rays are only done as needed (such as during an emergency). These X-rays help a dentist determine the extent of damage and whether an infection is present or not.
Are X-Rays Necessary and Safe During Pregnancy?
First, you’ll be glad to know that modern digital X-rays use about 90% less radiation than traditional. In fact, it’s estimated that dental X-rays expose you to the same amount of radiation as a 2-hour flight on an airplane.
But, even though the amount of radiation is very small, routine dental X-rays are still typically postponed during pregnancy.
However, in the event of a dental emergency, X-rays are widely considered to not only be necessary, but also safe. In fact, both the American Dental Association and the American College of Radiology agree that dental X-rays are safe during pregnancy, provided that the normal, standard protective apron is used.
In addition, it’s important to remember that your oral health affects the rest of your body, including an unborn child. For example, a toothache is often the result of an infection that can spread to other areas of the body and become dangerous or even life-threatening if it’s not treated.
Particularly in cases like this, the benefits of X-rays far outweigh the risks!
Is It Still Important For Pregnant Women To Get Checkups and Cleanings?
Although routine X-rays are usually postponed, routine checkups and cleanings are even more important than normal during pregnancy.
Researchers have found that inflamed gums (also called gingivitis or gum disease) increase the risk of pregnancy complications such as pre-term birth or low birth weight. However, regular cleanings and good oral hygiene at home will keep the gums healthy.
In fact, some insurance companies even cover additional cleanings during pregnancy, so be sure to check your plan.
Dental care is important at every stage of life, including pregnancy. With this information, you can rest assured that X-rays are safe and only done when necessary!
About the Author
Dr. Donna Franklin-Pitts is a family dentist in Tyler and also a native of the area. Her focus is on both the oral health and general well-being of her patients, especially during pregnancy, so she only recommends X-rays when they’re absolutely necessary. If you have any other questions about dental X-rays during pregnancy, she can be contacted via her website.