Dental Extractions While Breastfeeding – Is It Safe?

Pregnancy can really put a woman's body through the wringer. Not only does it change the appearance of your body, but it can also cause problems with your teeth. Due to the changing hormones and the baby taking in some of the mother's nutrients, what were healthy teeth and gums can begin to show signs of decay.

If your pregnancy has caused a tooth or two to decay beyond being saved, you've probably been worrying about how long you'll have to wait to get the teeth pulled. The good news is, teeth can safely be extracted during pregnancy and while breastfeeding your baby. Here, you'll find the answers to some questions that mothers need answered regarding dental extractions and breastfeeding.

Is it safe to have a tooth extracted while breastfeeding?

In most cases, yes. If your dentist has told you that a tooth needs to be extracted, there is good reason for pulling the tooth. There could be an infection in that tooth that could put you at risk, as well as your nursing baby. The toxins that infected teeth produce are harmful and the tooth should be extracted as soon as possible.

Can you take antibiotics while breastfeeding?

In most cases, yes. Oftentimes, dentists prescribe antibiotics to be taken immediately following a dental extraction. This is to prevent the infection from spreading and killing the infection that already exists. The antibiotic will not put your baby at risk.

Can you take pain relievers while breastfeeding?

In all reality, you shouldn't need anything more than ibuprofen following an extraction, but some dentists will prescribe stronger medications to help alleviate the discomfort. Ibuprofen will not only help to relieve the pain, but will help to reduce the swelling and inflammation that occurs after an extraction. It's best to avoid narcotics if possible, because those drugs will be present in your breast-milk and will put your baby at risk of exposure.

Can you put off the extraction until you're done breastfeeding?

 It is not in your best interest to put off an extraction until you're done breastfeeding. Since there is no real risk in having the tooth pulled, there is no real reason to put it off. Unless your doctor and dentist agree that pulling the tooth right now would cause a problem, schedule the appointment with your dental office and get it taken care of before things get worse.

Talk with your dentist and your doctor to get the answers to any other questions that you may have about dental extractions while breastfeeding.

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