When you’re expecting, dental emergencies don’t wait. Severe tooth pain can leave you wondering whether root canal treatment is safe for both you and your baby, especially when the discomfort becomes unbearable.
Root canal therapy can be safely performed during pregnancy when necessary to address infection and pain. At Burien Endodontics, Dr. Matthew Tomala and our team understand the concerns expectant mothers have about dental treatment and provide safe, effective endodontic care with the utmost attention to your comfort and well-being throughout your pregnancy.
When Root Canal Treatment Becomes Necessary During Pregnancy
Dental infections don’t wait for convenient times, and pregnancy can sometimes make certain dental problems more likely to occur. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase your risk of gum disease and make existing dental issues more problematic. When a tooth becomes severely infected or damaged, delaying treatment can actually pose greater risks to both mother and baby than proceeding with necessary care.
A root canal becomes necessary when the soft tissue inside your tooth, called the pulp, becomes infected or severely inflamed. This can happen due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or trauma. Left untreated, the infection can spread and create serious complications that are far more dangerous during pregnancy than the treatment itself.
Signs You May Need Emergency Endodontic Care
Severe, persistent tooth pain is often the first sign that you may need a root canal. Other symptoms include prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, discoloration of the tooth, swelling and tenderness in nearby gums, or a recurring pimple on the gums. If you experience any of these symptoms during pregnancy, it’s important to seek evaluation promptly rather than waiting until after delivery.
Safety Considerations for Root Canal Treatment During Pregnancy
Root canal therapy is considered safe during pregnancy, but certain precautions are taken to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. The second trimester is generally considered the optimal time for elective dental procedures, as the risk of complications is lowest during this period. However, emergency treatments can be safely performed at any stage of pregnancy when the infection poses a greater risk than the treatment.
Modern dental techniques and materials have made root canal therapy safer than ever. Local anesthetics commonly used during the procedure, such as lidocaine, are considered safe during pregnancy and have been used routinely for decades. These medications don’t cross the placental barrier in significant amounts and pose minimal risk to your developing baby. Additionally, we utilize laser technology for both disinfection and pain management, which can accelerate healing and reduce inflammation during your treatment.
Having a note from your obstetrician giving the go ahead for root canal treatment is recommended in case they have any concerns about treatment or have any recommendations to modify your treatment. Obtaining this on the front end can expedite same day treatment. If we do not have a go ahead from the obstetrician at the time of evaluation we can often contact them once a diagnosis is given and many will respond to such requests, but it may delay same day treatment.
X-Ray Safety During Pregnancy
Diagnostic imaging is an important part of endodontic treatment, and digital X-rays can be safely performed during pregnancy with proper precautions. Modern digital X-ray equipment uses significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays, and the focused beam is directed away from your abdomen. Lead aprons and thyroid collars provide additional protection, making the radiation exposure minimal and well within safe limits established for pregnant patients.
What to Expect During Your Root Canal Procedure
When you visit our office for root canal treatment during pregnancy, we take great care to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure. We’ll position you comfortably to avoid prolonged lying on your back, which can restrict blood flow in later stages of pregnancy. The procedure itself is typically completed in one or two visits, using our advanced technology, including diagnostic CBCT scanning and Global A-Series 6-Step Dental Microscopes to ensure precise, efficient treatment.
The treatment begins with careful numbing of the area around the affected tooth using a pregnancy-safe local anesthetic. We then create a small access hole in the tooth to remove the infected pulp tissue and clean the inside of the tooth thoroughly using our advanced laser technology for superior disinfection. After thorough cleaning, the space is filled with a biocompatible material and sealed. A temporary or permanent restoration is placed to protect the tooth.
Throughout the procedure, we monitor your comfort level and can adjust positioning or take breaks as needed. Many patients are surprised to find that root canal treatment is much more comfortable than they expected and provides immediate relief from the severe pain they were experiencing.
Post-Treatment Care and Pain Management
After your root canal procedure, some mild discomfort is normal as your body heals. However, managing pain during pregnancy requires careful consideration of medication options. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen are generally safe during pregnancy and effective for managing post-procedure discomfort. We’ll provide specific guidelines for pain management that are safe for both you and your baby.
It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene after your procedure and attend any follow-up appointments as scheduled. Proper healing is essential to prevent complications that could be more serious during pregnancy. Most often, patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms within a few days of treatment.
The Risks of Delaying Necessary Treatment
While it’s natural to want to avoid any medical procedures during pregnancy, delaying necessary root canal treatment can actually pose greater risks than proceeding with care. Untreated dental infections can spread to other parts of your body, potentially causing serious complications, including preterm labor or low birth weight.
The stress and pain from an infected tooth can also affect your overall health and well-being during pregnancy. Chronic pain can interfere with sleep, nutrition, and your ability to care for yourself properly. By addressing the problem promptly, you can maintain better overall health throughout your pregnancy.
Contact Burien Endodontics for Safe Pregnancy Care
If you’re experiencing dental pain during pregnancy, don’t let concerns about treatment safety prevent you from seeking the care you need. Dr. Matthew Tomala has over 14 years of experience in endodontics and has safely treated many expectant mothers throughout his career. As a graduate of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry with advanced training in endodontics from the University of Washington, he provides the highest standard of care with a focus on patient comfort and safety.
We maintain 100% digital patient records and will take diagnostic images and CBCT scans as needed to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. We’re open on Fridays when many other dental offices are closed, making it easier to get the urgent care you need. Our caring team understands the unique concerns of pregnant patients and will provide great care with a comforting approach throughout your treatment. To schedule a consultation or if you have questions about endodontic care during pregnancy, call our office at (206) 402-5147 or contact us through our website.