Are Dental Fillings Safe During Pregnancy? A Complete Guide

Pregnancy changes your body in all sorts of ways, and it’s usual to wonder how these shifts affect your health—especially your teeth. A lot of people worry about dental care while they’re expecting, like whether it’s okay to get a filling. Here’s the good news: getting dental work, including fillings, is usually safe during pregnancy. You just need to keep a few critical things in mind. Let’s clear up some of the common questions so you feel confident taking care of your teeth while you’re pregnant.

Why Dental Care Matters When You’re Pregnant

Oral care is part of your overall health. Hormones can make your gums more sensitive or leave you more prone to cavities and gum disease. If you skip dental care, minor problems can snowball into pain or infection—issues you definitely don’t want to deal with right now. Worse, untreated dental problems can sometimes affect your baby, too. That’s why sticking with regular checkups and getting necessary treatments, like fillings, matters more than ever.

Are Dental Fillings Safe While Pregnant?

Short answer: yes, they’re safe. Both the American Dental Association and the American Pregnancy Association agree that dental fillings and most other dental work are fine during pregnancy, especially if you wait until after the first trimester. The real danger comes from letting cavities go untreated. Cavities can cause pain, infection, and, in rare cases, even lead to problems like preterm birth or low birth weight. In other words, leaving a cavity alone is more concerning than getting it fixed.

When’s the Best Time to Get a Filling?

The sweet spot for dental work is the second trimester—around weeks 14 to 20. By this point, your baby’s organs are mostly done forming, and you’re not yet in that uncomfortable stretch of staying at home in the third trimester. If you need a filling before or after this window, just talk with your dentist and make a plan that keeps you and your baby safe.

What About Filling Materials?

The type of material your dentist uses does matter. You’ll usually get either a composite (that’s the tooth-colored one) or an amalgam (the classic silver kind). Composite fillings are safe during pregnancy and look great, too—so they’re a popular pick, especially for front teeth. Amalgam fillings contain mercury, which makes some people nervous. But research shows the tiny amount in dental fillings isn’t a problem. Still, lots of dentists play it safe and go with composite if you’re pregnant.

A Few Precautions to Keep in Mind

Even though fillings are safe, there are a couple of things you and your dentist should do:

• X-rays: Dentists try to avoid X-rays unless they really need them. If you do need one, they’ll use a lead apron to protect your belly.
• Anesthesia: Local numbing is safe in small doses, and your dentist will use only the minimum needed.
• Timing: Again, the second trimester is ideal, but if you need to work at another time, just make sure your dentist knows you’re pregnant and that you’ve discussed your options.

Take Care of Your Teeth After a Filling

Once you get a filling, keep up with brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. If you feel any pain or notice anything unusual after your appointment, check in with your dentist—they can suggest safe ways to manage it.

Don’t Ignore Your Teeth—Pregnancy Is No Time to Skip Dental Care

Your oral health really does affect your whole body, and that’s also true when you’re pregnant. Fillings are safe, especially in the second trimester, and composite fillings are a solid choice. Be open with your dentist about your pregnancy and don’t hold back if something feels off. Taking care of your teeth now helps protect both you and your baby—so don’t put it off. If you have questions or need a filling, just reach out to our dentist at Flink Family Dentistry Carrollton. 

FAQs

1. Can I get a dental filling during pregnancy?
Yes, dental fillings are safe during pregnancy, especially during the second trimester. It’s crucial to maintain oral health, and fillings help prevent further complications.

2. Is anesthesia safe for dental fillings during pregnancy?
Local anesthesia is generally safe for use during pregnancy. Your dentist will ensure minimal exposure to keep you comfortable without affecting the baby.

3. Are composite fillings safe during pregnancy?
Yes, composite fillings are considered safe and are often recommended for pregnant women due to their minimal risk and aesthetic appearance.

4. Should I delay a dental filling until after my pregnancy?
It’s best to treat cavities during pregnancy to avoid infection and other complications. The second trimester is the safest time for dental procedures. Always consult with your dentist.

5. Can dental work cause any harm to my baby?
Dental fillings are safe during pregnancy. The risk of harm is very low when performed by a qualified dentist, especially in the second trimester.