Tooth extraction and pregnancy are related because many women have one or more of their wisdom teeth removed while they are pregnant. Most obstetricians believe that it is safe to remove a wisdom tooth during this period if it is done with a minimum of trauma. Antibiotics and pain medicine should be prescribed to reduce the possibility of infection and to reduce any pain that may stress the mom and her baby.

          Tooth extraction and pregnancy are not mutually exclusive. Most OB/GYNs allow for full dental care during the last trimester and most elective dental care during the second trimester. The first trimester is when there is disagreement. The baby is forming during the first three months of life. It's making its liver, kidneys, heart and everything that a human being will need. During the second trimester, baby is just growing so there's very little to be disturbed. The last trimester is a problem for the mom, not the kid. Sitting in a dental chair for a hour or two in the same position can cause a mom's legs to go out.

          Tooth extraction and pregnancy seem to be related because it is very common for a woman with child to have dental problems. This is probably because the gums swell up due to the hormonal changes that accompany being pregnant. It's called pregnancy gingivitis. That's why it is very important to have excellent dental care right before and during the period that you carry your child. Studies have also shown that gum problems can lead to low birth weight babies so there is no reason to not take great dental care of yourself for your baby's sake.

          As stated before, tooth extraction and pregnancy are not mutually exclusive. Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, a dentist in Atlanta who practices with our dental group performs most of the oral surgery for the practice. He enjoys working with pregnant moms and does everything he can to be as gentle as possible during the tooth extraction procedure. He has three grown up children of his own. If you would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, call 404-874-7428 for your appointment.