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Is it safe to have a cavity filled while breastfeeding?

Is It Safe to Have a Cavity Filled While Breastfeeding?
For new mothers, the question of whether it is safe to undergo dental procedures, such as cavity fillings, while breastfeeding can be a source of concern. Fortunately, the consensus among dental and health professionals is reassuring.
Local Anesthetics and Safety
When it comes to dental work, including cavity fillings, the use of local anesthetics is standard practice. According to experts, the amount of anesthetic administered during such procedures is minimal, resulting in only an insignificant amount entering the bloodstream. This means that the exposure to the breastfeeding infant is extremely low, making it safe to proceed with dental treatments while nursing.
Compatibility of Medications
In addition to local anesthetics, other medications commonly used in dental procedures, such as those for sedation, are also deemed compatible with breastfeeding. Studies indicate that most medications, including novocaine and lidocaine, do not pose a risk to breastfeeding infants. This compatibility extends to routine dental care, allowing mothers to maintain their oral health without compromising their breastfeeding relationship.
Addressing Concerns About Dental Health
It’s important to note that breastfeeding itself has not been linked to an increased risk of tooth decay in mothers. While some myths suggest that breastfeeding, particularly during nighttime, can lead to cavities, research has not substantiated these claims. Therefore, mothers can feel confident that their breastfeeding practices do not inherently jeopardize their dental health.
Consulting with Your Dentist
While the general guidelines support the safety of dental work during breastfeeding, it is always wise for mothers to communicate openly with their dentists. Discussing any specific concerns or preferences regarding medications and procedures can help ensure a comfortable experience. Dentists are typically well-informed about the needs of breastfeeding mothers and can tailor their approach accordingly.
In conclusion, having a cavity filled while breastfeeding is considered safe. With minimal risks associated with local anesthetics and the compatibility of most dental medications with breastfeeding, mothers can prioritize their dental health without fear of harming their infants. As always, maintaining open communication with healthcare providers will further enhance the safety and comfort of the experience.

Will having a cavity affect my baby?

A mother and her developing child share a physical connection. If the mother has cavities, it indicates a substantial presence of cavity-causing bacteria in her oral cavity and body. This group of bacteria can be transmitted from person to person, allowing the mother to pass them on to her baby.

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.

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.

What can I take for tooth pain while breastfeeding?

Pain medication
Non-opioid pain mediation is preferred for dealing with pain while breastfeeding. Tylenol and Ibuprofen are the preferred medications to deal with pain. Both of these are found in breast milk, but the levels are low and result in minimal side effects with the infant.

How long does dental anesthesia stay in breastmilk?

If you are having surgery with local anesthetic
It is often used in dental procedures. These medications are poorly absorbed and do not transfer to human milk. Nursing may resume as soon as you feel able.

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.

Can cavities be passed through breast milk?

This study emphasizes the importance of tooth brushing and good dental hygiene. In summary: Although breastfed children can get cavities, breastmilk alone does not appear to be the cause. Foods other than breastmilk tend to be the main problem.

Is filler bad when breastfeeding?

Most sources say risk is very low: Based on the pharmacology of hyaluronic acid fillers, most experts believe they carry very little risk during breastfeeding.

How long after anesthesia can you breastfeed again?

Based on extensive research, the current recommendation is that a mother can continue to feed her infant breast milk immediately following her surgical procedure or when she feels well enough to nurse or express her milk.

Does getting a cavity filled affect breastfeeding?

The quick answer is that, in general, dental treatment is safe during nursing. Most dental treatments and drugs are safe to use during nursing. However, a few considerations must be considered: Anaesthesia: The type of anesthesia you get might have an impact on your ability to breastfeed.

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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