The possibility that an x-ray during pregnancy might cause harm to your unborn child is minimal. The benefits of diagnostic information provided by an x-ray are usually much more significant than any potential risk to a baby.

According to both the American Dental Association and the American Pregnancy Association, the amount of radiation used in dental x-rays is too low to cause any harm to a pregnant woman and her baby.

Make sure to inform your dentist of your pregnancy. You may need to have x-rays taken as part of your treatment plan for dental disease during your pregnancy. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, all preventive, diagnostic and restorative dental treatment, including dental x-rays, is safe during all stages of pregnancy. Use of the leaded apron and thyroid collar, as recommended by the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, will protect you and your fetus from radiation exposure. Dental X-rays also do not need to be delayed if you are trying to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.