Wisdom Tooth Extraction During Pregnancy

Wisdom teeth are the four molars that typically erupt in the back of the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25. In some cases, wisdom teeth can grow in properly and cause no problems. However, in other cases, wisdom teeth can grow in crooked or impacted, which can lead to pain, infection, and other problems.

If you are pregnant and your wisdom teeth are causing problems, you may be wondering if it is safe to have them removed. The good news is that wisdom teeth extraction during pregnancy is generally safe. However, there are some risks involved, so it is important to talk to your doctor or dentist about the risks and benefits before making a decision.

### Risks of Wisdom Tooth Extraction During Pregnancy

The main risks of wisdom tooth extraction during pregnancy are:

* **X-rays:** During wisdom tooth extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon may need to take X-rays to get a better look at your teeth and the surrounding bone. X-rays during pregnancy expose the fetus to a small amount of radiation. However, the benefits of having your wisdom teeth removed usually outweigh the risks of the X-rays.

* **Anesthesia:** Wisdom tooth extraction is usually performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the teeth. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used. General anesthesia can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of general anesthesia before making a decision.

* **Infection:** There is always a risk of infection after any surgery. The risk of infection is higher after wisdom tooth extraction than after other types of dental procedures. However, most infections can be treated with antibiotics.

### Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Extraction During Pregnancy

The benefits of wisdom tooth extraction during pregnancy include:

* **Pain relief:** If your wisdom teeth are causing pain, having them removed can provide relief.

* **Prevention of infection:** If your wisdom teeth are infected, having them removed can help to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of your body.

* **Prevention of tooth decay:** Wisdom teeth that are impacted can cause crowding and misalignment of your teeth. This can make it difficult to clean your teeth properly, which can lead to tooth decay. Having your wisdom teeth removed can help to prevent tooth decay.

### When to Have Wisdom Teeth Removed During Pregnancy

The best time to have wisdom teeth removed during pregnancy is during the second trimester. This is because the risk of miscarriage is lower during the second trimester. However, if your wisdom teeth are causing problems during the first or third trimester, you may need to have them removed during those times.

### After Wisdom Tooth Extraction During Pregnancy

After wisdom tooth extraction, you will need to take care of your mouth to prevent infection. You will also need to follow your doctor or dentist's instructions for pain relief. Most people can return to their normal activities within a few days of wisdom tooth extraction. However, it is important to take it easy and avoid strenuous activity for a week or two.

If you are pregnant and your wisdom teeth are causing problems, talk to your doctor or dentist about the risks and benefits of having them removed. Wisdom teeth extraction during pregnancy is generally safe, and the benefits of having your wisdom teeth removed often outweigh the risks.

Source: bard.google.com