Pregnancy raises understandable caution about dental procedures, but the data is reassuring: most routine dental work is safe and even recommended during pregnancy. Untreated dental infection during pregnancy carries higher risk than treating it. The questions are timing within the pregnancy, anaesthesia choice, X-ray exposure, and post-operative medication. This guide explains the WeCare protocol for pregnant patients.
What Is Safe Per Trimester
First trimester (weeks 1-12): Defer elective and major procedures. Treat urgent dental infections with appropriate antibiotic (amoxicillin is generally safe; tetracycline is contraindicated). Avoid major surgical procedures including implant placement.
Second trimester (weeks 13-27): The safest window for dental treatment. Routine cleanings, fillings, root canals, and most general dentistry can proceed normally. Local anaesthesia (lidocaine, articaine without epinephrine in some cases) is safe. Implant surgery still typically deferred until after delivery for non-urgent cases.
Third trimester (weeks 28-40): Avoid prolonged supine positioning (compression of vena cava). Routine treatment still possible but with patient positioned in slight left lateral tilt. Defer elective procedures until after delivery if possible.
Implant Surgery During Pregnancy
Elective implant placement is typically deferred until after delivery. Reasons:
- Stress and inflammation of surgery is unnecessary during pregnancy
- Antibiotic regimen and local anaesthesia decisions are more cautious
- Recovery and post-op care are more demanding
Exception: trauma or severe infection requiring extraction + immediate implant. Case-by-case.
WeCare typically schedules elective implants:
- 6+ weeks postpartum if not breastfeeding
- 3+ months postpartum if breastfeeding (allows post-natal hormonal stabilisation)
What to Send Us
WhatsApp +90 551 086 83 68 with:
- Current pregnancy week
- Specific dental concern
- Current medications
- Prenatal physician contact
Within 24 hours we send guidance on what is appropriate now vs what to defer.
