Filling fears
Question
I think I need a filling - since I'm pregnant, can I receive free treatment? Also, is the white filling the only type I can have while pregnant? If not, is there any other type that is pregnancy-safe and is covered by the NHS?
Answer
The Department of Health states that "it is now generally accepted that women should avoid unnecessary medical interventions during pregnancy in order to minimise any possible risks to the health of the foetus". This means that where possible, women should avoid having fillings when pregnant. As a precautionary measure silver (amalgam) fillings are definitely not recommended during pregnancy, even though there is no evidence that they could damage the foetus.
You should speak to your dentist if you feel that it is essential to have a filling while pregnant.
Pregnant women are entitled to free dental treatment and prescriptions. In order to claim free treatment, you need to apply for a Maternity Exemption Certificate in order to claim free treatment. To do this you would just need to ask you doctor, midwife or health visitor for a FW8 form, which they will also need to sign in order to certify your pregnancy. The Certificate is valid for women who are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months.
For more information on the Maternity Exemption Certificate you can call the Prescription Pricing Authority's helpline on 0845 601 8076 or make an enquiry online.
With a Maternity Exemption Certificate you can get white fillings through the NHS, except for on back teeth (white fillings are not considered hard-wearing enough). If you want to have white fillings on back teeth you will probably need to go private. The British Dental Health Foundation has more information about this.
For more information on all these matters call the British Dental Health Foundation's dental helpline on 0845 063 1188 between 9am and 5pm or contact them through their website. They provide free, impartial information and advice on all aspects of oral health and could advise you specifically about dental procedures and charges.
Good answer? Bad info? Want to tell us what you think? We'd really like to hear what you've got to say about this answer so please click here to take the survey. Your feedback is confidential and as anonymous as you like.
