Experiencing wisdom tooth pain while breastfeeding can raise immediate concerns about the safety of both mother and infant. Wisdom teeth removal often involves medications and a recovery period, prompting questions about its impact on breast milk and nursing. Understanding these implications requires a clear look at the medications involved and the physical demands of recovery.
Understanding Medication Safety
Local anesthetics, such as lidocaine, are considered compatible with breastfeeding because only a minimal amount passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding can resume immediately after receiving a local anesthetic.
Sedation and general anesthesia are also commonly used. Nitrous oxide, often called laughing gas, is quickly eliminated from the body within minutes and is considered compatible with breastfeeding. Other sedatives, including benzodiazepines and propofol, are short-acting and cleared from the body, making them safe for nursing parents. Healthcare providers suggest that mothers can resume breastfeeding as soon as they are awake and alert after general anesthesia, often within 4 to 6 hours.
For pain management, over-the-counter options like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Less than 1% of ibuprofen transfers into breast milk, and acetaminophen transfer ranges from 6-24%. Prescription opioids, such as codeine and oxycodone, can transfer to breast milk and may lead to infant drowsiness or feeding difficulties. When opioids are necessary, using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration is advised, and monitoring the infant for signs of sedation is important. Common antibiotics, like amoxicillin, are compatible with breastfeeding, with only about 0.95% transferring into breast milk.
Post-Procedure Recovery and Breastfeeding
Physical discomfort following wisdom teeth removal can present challenges for breastfeeding mothers. Swelling, pain, and jaw stiffness are common after the procedure and might make finding a comfortable position for nursing difficult. Adapting breastfeeding positions, such as side-lying or laid-back nursing, may help reduce pressure on the jaw and surgical site.
Staying adequately hydrated and maintaining good nutrition are important during recovery to support milk supply. Consuming soft, easy-to-eat foods can aid in recovery without aggravating the surgical area. Following post-operative care instructions, including proper oral hygiene, helps prevent complications like infection, which could affect her ability to continue breastfeeding.
Practical Tips for Breastfeeding Mothers
Before the wisdom teeth removal procedure, it is important to inform the dentist, oral surgeon, and anesthesiologist that you are breastfeeding. This allows them to select medications and develop a care plan that considers both your health and your baby’s safety. Scheduling the procedure right after a feeding can also help minimize disruption to your baby’s feeding schedule.
Preparing for recovery can help ensure a smoother experience. Arranging for assistance with childcare and household tasks can ease the burden during the initial recovery period. Having a supply of expressed breast milk or formula available can be beneficial if a temporary interruption in direct breastfeeding is anticipated.
After the procedure, it is advisable to monitor your infant for any signs of unusual drowsiness, lethargy, or changes in feeding patterns, especially if stronger medications were used. While some older advice suggested “pumping and dumping” breast milk, current guidelines indicate that this is rarely necessary for most medications used in wisdom teeth removal. However, if you feel overly drowsy or impaired by medication, or if specifically advised by a healthcare provider, temporarily discarding milk might be considered.