Dental problem and IVF timing

[MofM]

Hello,

I am just back from the dentist, who told me that there are signs of infection under one of my teeth and that it should be removed. She said that it is not urgent (the tooth has been quite bad for a few years now) but it is better to do it sooner than later, in order to prevent a worsening of the infection. Waiting time for the extraction is 6 to 8 weeks (perhaps even 12!) and should be done under sedation.

What would you do? Delay the start of the IVF until the dental problem is solved? Cross my finger and go ahead for IVF without removing the tooth? Risking of having it removes while cycling and/or pregnant?

I heard that dental issues are a risk factor for miscarriage, but it seems that IVF is moving further and further away (already looking into going private to avoid the 7-month waiting time with the NHS)

Thanks!

[MofM]

Thanks for the professional opinion, very much appreciated! I will look into the costs of having the extraction done privately.

On the other hand, I've also gotten a special mouthwash for bleeding gum 🙄, so waiting a few weeks can be worth, after all...

[Hidden in reply to MofM]

If it’s corsodyl- be aware it will stain your teeth!

Warm salt water mouth wash is good as anything and cheap!

[MofM in reply to Hidden]

It is corsodyl, indeed! Yes, I have been warned about the stains, and advised to use it only for a couple of days at a time, and only when gums are bleeding!

Warm salt water sounds better, however! How much salt?

[Hidden in reply to MofM]

A teaspoon

[Orla9298]

I was also going to suggest private, it’s not too expensive xxx

[Lamorna80]

I’m a dentist.

I would try and get the tooth removed sooner, maybe see if they can get you in as a cancellation. If there is grumbling infection, your body will be in a state of ‘inflammation’ as it is busy fighting the infection and keeping it under control.

This could quickly develop in to a bad toothache or even a serious abscess if your body then had something else to deal with, even something as simple as a cold.

I would advise not to transfer an embryo knowing that you will have raised inflammatory factors.

I would definitely get it taken out before being pregnant. I have had to take teeth out on pregnant women and even one who was in early labour! It is something that you should avoid.

It might be worth paying privately for extraction and unless you really want sedation, local anaesthetic is fine. It may say more about the dentist ability. I would only refer for sedation if you were a very nervous patient. Maybe seek a different dentist to extract.

Sorry if this comes across a bit blunt and hope you manage to get it all sorted xx Good luck xx

[MofM in reply to Lamorna80]

Thanks a lot for your opinion!

I am fine with local anaesthetic, it was the dentist suggesting sedation. Perhaps she is a nervous dentist? I believe it must be done under sedation and it could not be done with local anaesthetic, to be fully honest. Next week I will call her again and see if she can do it (or suggest someone that can do it)

[Hidden]

Hi.

I was in a similar situation & needed to have 2 teeth out. I was told mine was urgent & if left there would be constant low line infection. I had upcoming surgery to treat my endometriosis & after the surgery I was keen to start trying again. I was given a choice between having it done at hospital or at the dentist. With the hospital there was a long waiting list & no guarantees I’d be accepted. I chose to have it done at the dentist. Although it wasn’t a pleasant experience it was bearable. I wanted my body to be in best health to try for a baby. I can happily say after my surgery I did conceive & I’m 6 weeks pregnant tomorrow.

Ultimately it’s your decision, but I’d get your teeth sorted out before going through ivf - you want to be on the best health & know if has the best chance .

Wishing you the very best xoxo