I’ve been trying to get pregnant for five years. It’s finally happened. I’m pregnant!!! So, I’m thrilled and terrified all at the same time. I want to do everything right. I’ve lined up an OB. I’ve ordered baby furniture. I’ve got all the books….and then I get a toothache. I went to see my dentist, but absolutely refused to do x-rays. He examined me and said it looks like there’s something going on under my filling. It’s one of those silver fillings, so he suggested we get it out. I don’t know what to do? I mean, what about putting the baby at risk? Would it be better to switch to a holistic dentist while I’m pregnant?
Cory L. – Texas
Cory,
Congratulations! What an exciting time. I know you’re thrilled and terrified and you want to do everything right. That’s normal. What I don’t want you to do is panic. I know…easier said than done when you’re trying very hard to be perfect. So, take a deep breath and know that there’s a way to take care of you and the baby.
If you do have an infection, it’s important you deal with it. Letting it linger puts both of you at risk. Infection is a large contributor to pre-term births. It’s fine to get a holistic dentist during your pregnancy, and even after. Holistic dentists know how to do sanitary amalgam removals. That means they can remove your old amalgam filling, which is loaded with mercury, without you breathing in or ingesting any mercury or mercury vapors. After they clean out the infection, your filling can be replaced with a composite filling. They’re mercury free.
Also, to put your mind at ease, you’re safe to have dental x-rays. Most dentists these days use digital which hardly releases any radiation. Plus, you’ll be covered by a led apron.
Again, congratulations!
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