Which of the following is a potential concern for a pregnant patient undergoing dental procedures?

• A. Hypotension in the first trimester
• B. Supine hypotension in the third trimester
• C. Allergic reactions to local anesthetics
• D. Risk of preterm labor from minor procedures

Answer: (B)

Supine hypotension in the third trimester is a significant concern for pregnant patients undergoing dental procedures. During this stage of pregnancy, as the uterus expands, it can compress the inferior vena cava when the patient is lying flat on their back. This compression can lead to reduced venous return to the heart, causing a drop in blood pressure and potentially resulting in dizziness, fainting, or even more severe complications for both the mother and the fetus if not addressed properly.

To mitigate this risk during dental procedures, patients are often positioned in a way that avoids supine positioning, such as with a slight tilt to the left side. This helps alleviate pressure on the vena cava and ensures better blood flow, enhancing both maternal and fetal safety during treatment.

While other potential concerns may arise during dental procedures for pregnant patients, such as allergic reactions to local anesthetics or the risk of preterm labor, they do not pose the same immediate and reversible physical compromise as supine hypotension does in the third trimester.