You're pregnant. Your back aches. Your gums bleed when you brush. Then your dentist says you need an X-ray.
Your heart sinks. Radiation. My baby.
But here's what most expectant mothers don't know: untreated dental infections are far more dangerous to your pregnancy than a properly shielded dental X-ray.
Get Assessed Safely
What the Research Actually Says
Modern digital dental X-rays emit an extremely low dose of radiation. A single dental X-ray delivers less radiation than you'd absorb on a short flight.
Dentists use a lead apron and thyroid collar on every pregnant patient. These blocks over 90% of any scatter radiation from reaching your body.
The American Dental Association, the Royal College of Surgeons, and NHS guidance all confirm: dental X-rays are safe throughout pregnancy when proper shielding is used.
The Real Risk — Is Leaving It Untreated
If you have a dental infection, abscess, or gum disease during pregnancy, bacteria can enter your bloodstream.
Studies link untreated oral infections to increased risk of:
- Pre-term birth
- Low birth weight
- Gestational diabetes complications
- Preeclampsia
An untreated dental problem poses a measurable threat to your baby. A shielded X-ray does not.
What We Do at Meads Village Dental Practice
If you're pregnant or trying to conceive, tell us before we take any images.
We will:
- Defer routine X-rays until after delivery unless it's an emergency
- Use the lowest radiation setting available (digital sensors)
- Apply double shielding — lead apron plus thyroid collar
- Document your pregnancy stage in your notes
If you have pain, swelling, or infection — we will X-ray. Your health and your baby's health depend on us finding the problem.
When to Call Us Right Away
Don't wait for a routine appointment if you have:
- Throbbing toothache that won't settle
- Swelling in your jaw, face, or gums
- A bump or abscess on your gum
- Blood or pus when you bite
These are signs of active infection. Call us on 01323 723757 or book online at www.meadsdental.com — we will see you the same day.
Key Facts — Dental X-Rays and Pregnancy
- Safe? Yes — with lead shielding, at any stage of pregnancy
- Radiation dose? Extremely low — less than a short aeroplane flight
- Best time? Second trimester is ideal for non-urgent imaging
- Emergency? We X-ray immediately if infection is suspected
- Always disclose your pregnancy stage to your dentist before treatment
Being pregnant doesn't mean avoiding the dentist. It means your dentist takes extra care — which is exactly what we do.
Book your appointment: 01323 723757 | www.meadsdental.com