Many new mothers in Glen Iris, Malvern and Hawthorn put their own dental health on hold while breastfeeding, worried that treatment might harm their baby. The good news: dental treatment during breastfeeding is considered very safe, and delaying necessary care can create bigger problems down the track.
Local anaesthesia is safe while breastfeeding
The most commonly used dental anaesthetic, lignocaine, has extremely low transfer into breast milk. The tiny amount that does pass through is poorly absorbed by a baby’s digestive system. No pumping and discarding of milk is necessary after routine dental anaesthesia. You can feed your baby normally before and after your appointment.
Dental X-rays and breastfeeding
Dental X-rays do not affect breast milk in any way. Radiation from a dental X-ray is localised entirely to the mouth and jaw area. At Tooronga Family Dentistry we use digital X-rays, which use a fraction of the radiation of traditional film — and a lead apron is always used as standard practice.
What about antibiotics and pain relief?
If treatment requires antibiotics, certain types are compatible with breastfeeding. We always prescribe with your feeding status in mind and consult current safety guidelines. Paracetamol and ibuprofen — the most common post-dental pain relievers — are both considered safe during breastfeeding at recommended doses.
Sedation and breastfeeding
If you require sedation, this requires more caution. We discuss this with you individually and may recommend pumping and discarding milk for a short period following sedation depending on the agent used. This is the one area where extra planning is worthwhile.
Don’t put your dental health last
The postnatal period is demanding, and self-care often takes a back seat. But untreated dental problems don’t resolve on their own. Our team at Tooronga Family Dentistry understands the unique needs of new mothers and creates a calm, unhurried environment for patients across Glen Iris, Malvern, Hawthorn East and Ashburton.
Breastfeeding and need dental care? Call or book online Tooronga Family Dentistry on (03) 9822 7006 – we’ll make it safe, simple and stress-free.