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Can I go to the dentist if Im breastfeeding?

Can I Go to the Dentist While Breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is a vital and cherished experience for many mothers, providing essential nutrition and fostering a deep bond with their infants. However, as life continues post-birth, many nursing mothers find themselves needing dental care. The question arises: Is it safe to visit the dentist while breastfeeding?
Dental Care is Important for Nursing Mothers
Just as maintaining dental health is crucial during pregnancy, it remains equally important after childbirth. Regular dental visits help ensure that mothers can care for their own health, which in turn supports their ability to care for their babies. Neglecting dental issues can lead to more significant problems down the line, making it essential for breastfeeding mothers to keep up with their dental appointments.
Safety of Dental Procedures
The good news for nursing mothers is that most dental procedures are considered safe during breastfeeding. Dentists are generally well-informed about the needs of breastfeeding patients and can prescribe medications that are safe for both mother and baby. Common dental medications, such as antibiotics and pain relievers, typically do not pose a risk to nursing infants.
Moreover, sedation dentistry, including the use of nitrous oxide, is also deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers. According to experts, these substances do not significantly transfer into breast milk, allowing mothers to undergo necessary procedures without fear of harming their infants.
Consulting Your Dentist
Before undergoing any dental treatment, it is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to inform their dentist about their nursing status. This communication ensures that the dental team can tailor their approach and select the safest options for treatment.
While most dental work is compatible with breastfeeding, some procedures, such as teeth whitening, may not be recommended due to potential dental health issues that could arise. Therefore, discussing any concerns with your dentist is crucial to ensure both your health and the well-being of your baby.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can confidently attend dental appointments without the need to stop nursing. Maintaining oral health is vital, and with the right precautions and communication with healthcare providers, mothers can receive the care they need while continuing to provide for their infants. As always, staying informed and proactive about health is key to a successful breastfeeding journey.

Is it safe to have dental work while breastfeeding?

There is no evidence to interrupt breastfeeding after the use of local anaesthetics. Local anaesthetics work by deadening sensation of the nerve endings around the tooth. There is no evidence of passage into breastmilk and therefore no reason not to continue breastfeeding.

Is it safe to go to the dentist after giving birth?

After giving birth, you’ll be free to undergo all treatments again and get any dental problems sorted out. But do tell your dentist if you are breastfeeding, as some treatments are not suitable for breastfeeding women. This is because medications can pass to the baby via the breast milk.

Can a breastfeeding mom go to the dentist?

Most dental work is totally compatible with a breastfeeding lifestyle. In fact, relaxing in the dentist chair may be the most quality alone time you get all week! Just remember, taking care of your own dental needs is essential for the overall health of you and your baby.

Can breastfeeding moms go under anesthesia?

Breastfeeding and human milk feeding generally does not need to be interrupted for anesthesia, though we may advise you to time your feeding or pumping. Local (Bupivacaine, lidocaine, mepivacaine): These are put into the body at the site of the procedure.

Does fluoride pass into breast milk?

Breast milk is very low in fluoride. Nursing mothers or pregnant women who drink fluoridated water do not pass on significant amounts of fluoride to their child.

When should I stop breastfeeding before anesthesia?

If you are breastfeeding, you can breastfeed your baby until 4 hours before the scheduled time to come to the hospital.

Is local anesthesia safe for breastfeeding?

It is entirely safe to breast feed after local anaesthetic. The amount of lidocaine that will be present in your breast milk is too small to be harmful to the baby. If you wish to breast feed from that breast you may decide to express and throw away the milk from that breast for up to 12 hours after the procedure.

How long after dental anesthesia can I breastfeed?

In most cases, you can breastfeed right after a dental procedure, especially if you’ve had local anesthesia or routine dental work. The amount of medication that enters your breast milk is typically minimal and considered safe.

How long to wait to breastfeed after dental numbing?

Many controlled studies examine the effects of local anesthesia on breastfeeding mothers, but the consensus is that moms can resume breastfeeding right after receiving local anesthesia.

Can you get a filling while pregnant?

According to the American College of Obstetricians and the American Dental Association, getting a filling during pregnancy is entirely safe and recommended. Silver fillings can contain mercury, which could potentially pose a very small risk to the baby.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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