Dental imaging during pregnancy: questions to discuss with your dentist
ADA and FDA guidance treats dental x-rays as acceptable during pregnancy when they are needed to diagnose or treat a problem, because the exposure is small and aimed away from the abdomen, with routine or elective images often deferred until after delivery. Tell the dental team you are pregnant, how far along you are, and involve your OB provider in any decision about imaging or treatment.
What changes the answer
A dental emergency or infection: untreated infection and pain are themselves a concern, so needed care is not postponed. A routine check-up with no symptoms, where images can usually wait. Which image is needed: a single periapical for a painful tooth is a different question from a full series. The American Dental Association's radiograph guidance addresses pregnancy and emphasizes selecting images by need (ADA); MedlinePlus describes the low dose of dental x-rays (MedlinePlus).
Protective measures
Digital sensors with low doses; a limited number of images aimed at the question; shielding as the office's protocol and current guidance direct; no repeat images without a reason.
Questions to discuss with your dentist
- What question does this image answer, and can it wait?
- Which image, and how many?
- What protection will be used?
- What happens to my plan if we defer?
Questions for your OB provider
- Any concern about dental imaging or treatment at my stage?
- Any medications or conditions the dentist should know?
Dental care during pregnancy in general
Cleanings and treatment of decay and gum disease continue; pregnancy gingivitis is common and treated with cleaning and home care. Tell both providers what the other has said. This page does not give doses or medical advice.
Next step: Request a consultation or call (805) 565-5111. A request is not a confirmed appointment; the office confirms times during its listed hours (Monday to Thursday, 8 am to 5 pm, plus select Fridays).
Two-provider discussion sheet
For my dentist
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is this image needed now, or can it wait? | |
| Which image and how many? | |
| Protection used? | |
| Plan if deferred? |
For my OB provider
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Concerns about dental imaging or treatment at my stage? | |
| Anything the dentist should know? |
Weeks pregnant: ____
Guides are general education; an examination is needed for individual advice.
Sources
- Oral Health Topics: X-Rays/Radiographs (updated Mar 26, 2026) — American Dental Association
- Dental x-rays (MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, reviewed Feb 5, 2026) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Clinician statement — Loul Dental Studio
Sources were current when this guide was last updated.
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Please contact the studio to discuss your own situation.