Can wisdom teeth be extracted during breastfeeding?
Sep 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Introduction
It is possible to remove wisdom teeth during breastfeeding. Since anesthetics are required before extracting wisdom teeth, regardless of whether imported or domestic anesthetics are used, a certain amount of time is needed for the body to metabolize the anesthesia. After the extraction, dentists usually recommend that mothers take anti-inflammatory medication to prevent infection. Among common anti-inflammatory drugs, apart from amoxicillin, others may affect infant development through breast milk.
Wisdom teeth can be a painful ordeal. Many people have experienced this discomfort, although some individuals develop wisdom teeth much later in life. When wisdom teeth emerge, it's often unclear whether they need to be extracted. In fact, the decision to remove wisdom teeth depends on their growth position—only improperly positioned teeth require removal. But can you extract wisdom teeth while breastfeeding?
Can You Extract Wisdom Teeth While Breastfeeding?
Yes, it is possible to remove wisdom teeth during breastfeeding. Before extraction, anesthesia is required, and regardless of whether imported or domestic anesthetics are used, the body needs time to metabolize these drugs. After removing the wisdom tooth, dentists usually recommend that mothers take anti-inflammatory medication to prevent infection. Generally, most anti-inflammatory medications are safe; aside from amoxicillin, which may affect infant development through breast milk, wisdom tooth extraction can be performed safely during lactation. Clinically, preventing post-extraction infection during breastfeeding is essential.
Medication is necessary during tooth extraction. When removing a wisdom tooth while breastfeeding, mothers should nurse their baby before the procedure and express and discard breast milk afterward to minimize any potential impact of anesthetic substances on the infant. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene after extraction is important. The amount of anesthetic secreted into breast milk and subsequently absorbed by the infant is negligible. However, if concerned, mothers may choose to express and discard the first feeding of milk and avoid giving it to the child. After tooth extraction, oral antibiotics are typically prescribed, with penicillin and cephalosporins being relatively safe choices.
If metronidazole is taken during treatment, it is best to suspend breastfeeding until at least 24 hours after the last dose. We hope this information is helpful to you. Wishing you good health and happiness.
