You Asked, We Answered: Can I Get Sedation If I'm Pregnant?

By Author: Molly Burton
Total Articles: 54
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Recent studies estimate that upwards of 60% of patients struggle with dental-related anxiety. While the fear itself isn’t necessarily harmful, it can cause patients to avoid getting the essential dentistry they need, which is harmful. Fortunately, that’s where sedation dentistry comes in. With calming solutions like nitrous oxide (commonly known as “laughing gas”), you can feel completely relaxed in the treatment chair. But what if you’re pregnant? Is sedation dentistry still an option for expecting mothers? Read on to find out!
So, Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for Expecting Mothers?
According to the American Dental Association, sedation options (like oral conscious sedation and nitrous oxide) are not recommended during pregnancy since there is a risk of fetal harm. If you’ve struggled with dental-related anxiety in the past and you’re currently expecting, then there are two options. If you’re toward the end of your pregnancy and the treatment can wait until after you’ve given birth, then that might be the best solution. If ...
... the treatment you need is urgent and your oral and overall well-being are at risk, then your dentist may work with you to use as little as possible of the safest sedative.
3 Helpful Tips to Combat Dental-Related Anxiety
If you want to try and get the dental care you need without sedation dentistry, then you can take these steps to combat anxiety in the treatment chair:
• Talk to your dentist – Remember,