Many expectant mothers worry when the dentist suggests an X-ray. Understanding the radiation dose and how you are shielded helps you feel more at ease when treatment is needed.
- A dental X-ray uses a very low radiation dose, only exposes the mouth and uses a lead apron over the abdomen and neck.
- In pregnancy the dentist only orders an X-ray when really needed, such as severe toothache or suspected infection.
- Tell the dentist if you are pregnant or may be before any X-ray.
- Non urgent images can usually wait until after birth, and the final decision is made by the dentist.
When pregnant and suffering from toothache, many women are reluctant to see a dentist, and the biggest worry is being given an X-ray. The worry is understandable, since radiation is something to treat carefully where an unborn baby is concerned. But it helps to understand dental X-rays properly in order to make a suitable decision.
How is a dental X-ray different from other scans?
A dental X-ray only exposes the mouth region, with a very low radiation dose and a narrow beam, far from the abdomen. During the scan the patient is usually given a lead apron to cover the abdomen and neck, which reduces scattered radiation further. See also whether dental X-rays are harmful.
When does the dentist order one?
In pregnancy, the dentist only orders an X-ray when it is really necessary for diagnosis and treatment, for example:
- Severe toothache, or suspected infection at a tooth root or an abscess.
- A swollen cheek or badly swollen gum whose cause needs to be known.
- Root canal treatment or an extraction that cannot be postponed.
If the examination finds no acute problem, non urgent images should wait until after the birth. Whether to take an X-ray is always decided by the dentist after examining you.
What should you do?
- Tell the dentist and staff straight away that you are pregnant or may be pregnant before any X-ray.
- Ask why it is needed and whether there is an alternative.
- Ask for a lead apron to cover the abdomen and neck.
- If you can, also ask your obstetrician for advice.
Caring for teeth so you need fewer X-rays
Keeping the mouth clean and having a dental check before pregnancy lowers the risk of acute toothache during pregnancy. See also whether pregnant women can have a tooth removed or filled and whether to have teeth checked and treated before pregnancy.
When should you visit Ky Hoa Dental Clinic?
Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. You can walk in during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first. Whether to take an X-ray is decided by the dentist after examining you and discussing with you.
Frequently asked questions
Is a dental X-ray safe during pregnancy?
A dental X-ray uses a very low dose, only exposes the mouth and uses a lead apron for shielding. Even so, in pregnancy the dentist only orders one when really needed.
Do I need to tell the dentist I am pregnant before an X-ray?
Yes. Tell the dentist and staff when you are pregnant or may be pregnant so it can be weighed up and you can be shielded properly.
Which images can wait until after the birth?
Non urgent images, such as routine check ones, can usually wait until after birth. The dentist will weigh this according to your situation.