What if I’m pregnant and need a dental x-ray?
A radiograph may be needed for dental treatment or a dental emergency that can’t wait until after the baby is born. Untreated dental infections can pose a risk to the fetus, and dental treatment may be necessary to maintain the health of the mother and child. Radiation from dental X-rays is extremely low. However, every precaution is taken to minimize radiation exposure. A leaded apron minimizes exposure to the abdomen and should be used when any dental radiograph is taken. A leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from radiation, and should be used whenever possible. The use of a leaded thyroid collar is strongly recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children. Dental radiographs are not contraindicated if one is trying to become pregnant or is breast feeding.

According to the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry, a child’s bedtime or nap time use of a bottle containing juice, milk, formula, or any other liquid sweetened increases the risk of severe dental caries due to prolonged contact of bacteria on tooth surface and the sugars from the consumed liquid.

Recommendations
1. Infants should not be put to sleep with a bottle.
2. Parents should be encouraged to have infants drink from a
cup as they approach their first birthday. Infants should be
weaned from the bottle at 12–14 months of age.
3. Consumption of juices from a bottle should be avoided.
When juices are offered it should be from a cup.
4. Oral hygiene measures should be implemented by the time
of eruption of the first primary tooth.
5. An oral health consultation visit within six months of the
eruption of the first tooth is recommended to educate parents.
For further information on Baby Bottle Syndrome contact your dentist