Hi ya,I am a dentist! I hope I can answer; but let me know if you have any more questions...
So; It is beneficial to have an xray for molar teeth to assess the position and angulation of the roots of the tooth relevant to other structures, if the dentist you are going to has digital xrays I would go straight ahead, as the dose is negligable, less than a european flight. Of course this is up to you, but there is no evidence that there is any risk at all to the fetus, as the beam does not go directly to the uterus.As a personal policy I always explain this to patients, but absolutely respect anyone who would rather wait for the baby to be born before xrays. You have to bear in mind a dentist will always carry out a risk/benefit to any radiographs and will always use the lowest dose possible.
As for the actual procedure... i would buy in the paracetamol and take a couple as soon as you leave the dentists, so they are at peak when the local wears off. For most of my patients this is more than enough, and they dont have to take them after that. If you are a smoker there is more of a risk of a 'dry socket' and that could cause more pain.
Unless you have had any health problems in pregnancy there shouldnt be too much of a pregnancy issue taking the tooth out, but bear in mind if you are very stressed your blood sugar will dip and you might become faint, eat lightly before. High levels of anxiety are also not good for your pregnancy to try to take it easy and rationalise ( dont watch crap videos on Youtube)
As with all things in pregnacy you have to look at the risk/benefit and alternatives. The alternative here is antibiotics, which will manage the infection for a while but will not remove the cause, if the tooth is restorable removing the nerve in preparation for a Root canal therapy may be an option. Certain antibiotics are not known to be harmful in pregnancy, but I wouldnt be keen to take loads in my pregnancy.
You didnt say how far along you are. We are taught that the second trimester is the safest time for treatment.
Wishing you all the best, you are less likely to have post operative pain/ swelling if the tooth is removed with 'periotomes' which preserve the bone more. ( just in my experience) but the emergency dentist may not have access to these.
Hoping all goes well. Think of me with morning sickness taking teeth out tomorrow morning! x