Dentist - anaesthetic?

6 replies

MsSampson · 10/04/2012 16:21

I have a worrying toothache, like there is something wrong with a filling, or I need a new one... I'm 28 weeks, and just thought "wahey, at least it's free" but then someone pointed out that they don't think I can have an anaesthetic when I'm pregnant. Now I'm petrified! Is this true? It sounds medieval.
Also, I just have a MATB1 form from my doctor, but I have heard people talk of exemption cards, do I need one of these to get free treatment? Does that come from the doctor too?

OP posts:

ClaireAll · 10/04/2012 16:28

You can have an anaesthetic.

The risk of a anaesthetic is less that the risk of leaving a tooth to become infected.

mummyinspain · 10/04/2012 16:38

Speaking as Someone that does not have anaesthetic due to an allergy, go an ASK, you really really really want anaesthetic if it is necessary, It coud just be an infection but please go to the dentist.

BikeRunSki · 10/04/2012 16:45

I had an anaesthetic for a replacement filling at about 28 weeks. Free, and I got a white filling as my dentist didn't want to give me mercury. You do need a n nhs prescription exemption card though. You get the form from you me, she signs it. You fill in the rest and post it off. Took about a week to come back this time last year. For dental work, exemption card is only applicable if you have an Nhs dentist. A private dentist will still charge you.

MoonHare · 10/04/2012 16:51

I unwittingly had an anaesthetic at 5 wks as I didn't know I was pregnant. I spoke to the dentist a week later, when I knew and was told he could finish my treatment once I was through the first trimester and that anaesthetic would be fine from then. I was also reassured by my lovely GP that it's all precautionary anyway and is highly unlikely to do any harm to baby. Give your dentist a ring and have a chat.

Original poster

MsSampson · 10/04/2012 16:57

Thanks everyone, just did a bit of googling, and got similar, I just suddenly had images of 17th century style tooth extractions. I'm not quite sure where my friend got her info from! Just mentioned it in the office and am being inundated with dentist horror stories, and pregnancy/tooth advice now which is nice.
My dentist is definitely NHS, and I will cross fingers for white filling too.

OP posts:

bonbonpixie · 10/04/2012 18:26

If you are having a filling replaced rather than a new one, maybe ask them to use a dental dam especially if the filling to be removed is amalgam.

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