Dental treatment in early pregnancy

[sam1983]

Hey hope someone can help.

I recieved 2 amalgam fillings only to find out i was pregnant when i had these fillings put in and that these type of fillings should not ne used in pregnancy. I am very worried that they may cause some harm.

any advice would be great

[Mmmmcheese]

Congratulations! I'm not entirely sure but I think that they can just take out the filling and replace them with the white ones which are safe? I think it is actually having them in your mouth over time that is unsafe as the metals start leaking a bit or something. I'm no expert so someone else might be able to be more helpful!

[AKissIsNotAContract]

I'm a dentist. Now that you have them they are best left there as removing them will release more mercury. Apparently the risk is tiny, I think tinned tuna carries a greater risk.

[ShatnersBassoon]

I had an amalgam filling when I was in very early pregnancy, before I knew I was pregnant. I think the risks are minuscule (not even sure if there's any evidence of risk), so I didn't fret about it because there was absolutely zilch I could do to change anything.

[sprinkles77]

Also a dentist, also agree with Akiss above. Would also add 1. the evidence on white fillings being safer is not 100% conclusive, 2. that dental treatment in general is safe in pregnancy, and it is a good idea to get your mouth sorted before you have the baby, as getting to appointments with baby in tow is hard!

1. There is plenty of evidence to suggest that poor oral health, specifically gum disease, is linked with premature and low birth weight babies, so take advantage of free NHS dental treatment in pregnancy and make sure you get at least 2 check ups and scale / polishes in before baby arrives!

[sam1983]

Thanks everyone for the great advice. I feel so much better now :o