A Pregnant Patient (First Trimester) Reporting for Pain in Relation to the Maxillary Left First Molar Was Prescribed a Full Mouth Series Radiographs in the Dental Office

Abstract

This case scenario shows the value of conducting a thorough clinical examination that will direct appropriate radiographic selection and prescription criteria to be able to arrive at a diagnosis. Proper management of a patient's chief complaint and imaging needs during pregnancy is of utmost importance. It is prudent to limit ionizing radiation during the first trimester to what is minimally needed and defer elective imaging until after the birth of the baby. It is important for dental health care providers to do what is necessary for the patient for the emergent situation and postpone all elective imaging and follow the published FDA/ADA radiographic selection criteria.

Keywords: ALADA-IP; Dental considerations in pregnancy; Dental radiographs; Radiation dose; Radiation safety; Radiographic selection criteria; Radiographs and pregnancy.