Breastfeeding And Dental Care, A Guide For Nursing Mothers

Is it safe to be numbed up if I am breastfeeding? What medications can I take while nursing? When and how should I take my medications as to not endanger my baby? Do dental materials or medications show up in breast milk? These are just a few of the questions that new mothers ask us. As dentists at Camarillo Smiles, we have many patients concerned, and rightly so, about the possibility of harming or affecting the health of their nursing infant. So let’s tackle these questions right here. We like to follow the recommendations of trusted and science-based organizations. These guidelines come from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

When taking medications while nursing, it is always best to take them right after a feeding. If you are taking a once a day medication, take it right after the feeding that precedes the longest sleeping interval.  If you are taking a medication that you have to take several times a day, take it immediately after a feeding.

Amalgam (Mercury) fillings are usually at the heart of this question. Although there are plenty of stories about the dangers of amalgam on the internet, real science, good studies, just don’t support those stories. But with that said, there are wonderful alternative materials out there that are wonderful for restoring teeth. But, if you need to have an old amalgam filling replaced while breast-feeding, should you worry? Current modern science says no, but many people will. If you have a concern, isolating that tooth with a rubber dam and high-speed suction may help alleviate your concern.

Breastfeeding can be such a wonderful experience for you. With a little caution, we can keep it just as safe for your child as it is beneficial.