Help! Cavity in the 2WW?

[bea_mama]

We are currently TTC and I'm at 6 DPO. Yesterday I noticed a rough spot on my back molar - had my DH take a look at it and he thinks it's a cavity (small crack in my tooth and a dark spot).

Obviously, I need to go to the dentist. I've only ever had 1 small cavity ages ago, so I don't remember what they do to check it - do I have to get an X-ray? If I am pregnant (and I really don't know if I am), I obviously don't want an X-ray. Can they drill out the cavity without one? Can they give me Novacaine or is that an issue if you are pregnant?

Also, should I schedule the appointment ASAP or set it up for 2 weeks from now when I'll know for sure?

Beyond being really annoyed by the idea of having a cavity (I brush! I go to the dentist every six months! I floss- at least every so often!), I'm just unsure of what to do. The idea of telling my wacky dentist that I think I'm pregnant before even telling my MOM also just weirds me out. ;)

Advice? Thanks!

[Tracie]

I"m no expert, but I don't think they have to take x-rays to check if it's a cavity. I think they poke it with the little instrument. Definitely do tell them that there is a possibility that you're pregnant. I know it feels weird when you haven't told your family (I was in a similiar situation), but they're medical professionals and they need to know, especially when you have concerns about the safety of any procedures.

[lml41981]

My OB was fine with me having oral x-rays taken as long as I wore the lead vests. The x-rays are so focused on one area that radiation isn't going to affect the baby.

I had a root canal done while just finishing my 2nd tri and beginning my 3rd tri, so yes, you can definitely have Novocaine. You cannot have nitrous.

If you can put the filling off until the 2ww is over and you're able to talk with your own OB about his or her preferences, that may be best. Your OB and mine might disagree.

[LLB0526]

My OB was also fine with me having x-rays during the first trimester. I told the dentist that I was pregnant and they put 2 lead vests on during the x-ray as an extra precaution. As it turned out, I needed root canal, which I also had during my pregnancy. I'd call your potential OB if you do end up pregnant and ask what his/her opinion is on it; and if you do go, make sure you tell the dentist that there's a chance that you're pregnant. From what I experienced myself and from what other friends of mine have said, most OBs are fine with oral x-rays, even during the first trimester.