Getting a cavity filled while breastfeeding is generally considered safe, but it requires careful consideration and open communication with healthcare providers. Many dental procedures and medications commonly used in dentistry are compatible with breastfeeding.
Safety of Dental Procedures During Breastfeeding
The physical act of a dental filling procedure, including drilling and placing filling materials, presents minimal systemic exposure to a breastfeeding mother. Dental fillings, such as those made from composite resins (white fillings), are biocompatible and considered safe for nursing mothers. There is no evidence suggesting these materials affect breast milk or the baby.
Concerns about amalgam (silver) fillings, which contain mercury, are often raised. While elemental mercury is present in amalgam, the amount of mercury vapor released and transferred to breast milk is low. Studies show very low concentrations in breast milk. Alternative materials are available if a filling is needed. If an existing amalgam filling needs to be removed, dentists can employ precautions to minimize mercury vapor exposure.
Medications and Breastfeeding
Medications used during and after a cavity filling are a primary concern for breastfeeding mothers, though many are compatible with lactation. The amount of medication that enters breast milk is minimal and often poorly absorbed by the infant, further reducing risk.
Local anesthetics, frequently used in dental procedures, are generally safe for breastfeeding mothers. Common anesthetics like lidocaine, articaine, and bupivacaine have minimal transfer into breast milk and are rapidly metabolized. For instance, lidocaine concentrations in milk are very low, and its poor oral bioavailability means little would be absorbed by the infant even if transferred. Articaine also shows low excretion into breast milk, and studies suggest breastfeeding can safely resume within a few hours after its administration.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen are considered safe choices for managing pain after a dental procedure. Only small amounts of these medications pass into breast milk, and they are well-tolerated by infants. If antibiotics are necessary for an infection, many common options, such as amoxicillin and certain cephalosporins, are safe during breastfeeding. It is important to inform the dentist about breastfeeding status so they can prescribe appropriate medications.
Practical Considerations for Breastfeeding Mothers
Planning ahead can help breastfeeding mothers manage a dental appointment smoothly. Scheduling the appointment immediately after a feeding session can maximize the time before the next feed, allowing for a longer interval for any medications to metabolize. This timing also ensures the baby has recently fed, potentially making them more comfortable during the mother’s appointment.
Open communication with the dental team is important. Informing the dentist about breastfeeding status allows them to adjust the treatment plan and choose medications compatible with lactation. Mothers can also discuss any specific concerns they might have regarding the procedure or medications. If there are concerns about medication exposure, mothers can pump and store breast milk beforehand to ensure the baby has an adequate supply. While often unnecessary for local anesthetics, some mothers may choose to express and discard milk for a short period after certain procedures, though this is usually not medically required.
Monitoring the baby for any unusual reactions after the procedure is advisable, though adverse effects are uncommon. Maintaining good oral hygiene, staying well-hydrated, and ensuring adequate nutrition are also beneficial for overall health and milk supply during this time.