A 16-week pregnant woman presents ASYMPTOMATIC with a deep dentinal caries lesion (not into pulp) on a molar. What is the correct management?

Correct answer: D. Treat now — within the 2nd trimester (14–20 weeks is the safest window)

• A. Deferring necessary restorative care allows caries to progress to the pulp, which then requires more complex (and less pregnancy-friendly) treatment.
• B. Waiting for pain means allowing pulpal involvement — poor practice, especially in pregnancy where you want to avoid emergencies in the 3rd trimester.
• C. Antibiotics do not treat caries; there is no indication to prescribe them here.
• D. CORRECT — <Invasive dental procedures can be safely performed during all three trimesters, with early second trimester (14–20 weeks) being the safest period for routine oral health care. She is at 16 weeks, within the ideal window; a deep dentinal caries lesion should be restored now to prevent progression to the pulp.