Can You Get Braces While Pregnant?

Thinking about getting braces while you’re pregnant? It definitely raises a lot of questions about how safe it is and when the best time might be. The good news is that getting braces while pregnant is generally safe, though there are some important things to consider. Let’s explore what you need to know about orthodontic treatment during pregnancy, including the benefits, potential concerns, and best timing for starting your journey to a straighter smile.

Talk to Your Healthcare Providers First

It’s really important to talk to your healthcare providers before deciding on any orthodontic treatment while you’re pregnant. This covers both your obstetrician and your orthodontist. We’re here to guide you through the safety and timing of your treatment, making sure it fits well with your overall health and pregnancy journey.

Your obstetrician knows all about your pregnancy health and can help you figure out if it’s a good time to get orthodontic work done. They can look into any possible risks tied to the hormonal and physiological changes that happen during pregnancy, which may impact your treatment. As your orthodontist, we’ll take a look at your unique dental needs to recommend the safest and most effective treatment options for you.

Talking about your plans with both providers makes sure that everyone taking care of you is in sync. This teamwork helps manage any risks and customizes your orthodontic treatment to fit your specific needs while you’re pregnant.

Oral Health Changes During Pregnancy

When you’re pregnant, your body goes through a lot of changes, and your oral health is no exception. Understanding these changes can help you take care of your dental health and keep both you and your baby feeling great.

• Increased Risk of Gum Disease: One common change you might notice is a rise in hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone. Pregnancy hormones can impact your gums, causing them to be more sensitive, swollen, and even more likely to bleed. We call this “pregnancy gingivitis,” and it can be uncomfortable and even lead to more serious gum disease if not managed properly.
• Increased Plaque Buildup: Another oral health issue that some pregnant women experience is an increase in plaque buildup. Hormonal changes can affect how the body reacts to plaque, making it more prone to irritation and inflammation. Brushing, flossing, and getting those professional cleanings are super important for keeping plaque in check.
• Increased Risk of  Cavities: Morning sickness can really affect your oral health too. Throwing up a lot can expose your teeth to stomach acids, which can erode tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities. Rinsing your mouth with water or fluoride mouthwash after an episode of morning sickness can help protect your teeth.
• Dry Mouth: During pregnancy, you might notice that your mouth feels drier than normal, which happens when there’s less saliva than usual. Saliva is super important for getting rid of food bits and balancing out acids in your mouth. Keeping yourself hydrated and popping some sugar-free gum can get your saliva flowing.
• Enhanced Gag Reflex: Lots of pregnant patients experience an enhanced gag reflex because of hormonal changes, and this can make dental treatments a bit tricky. But don’t worry! We’ve got a lot of experience dealing with these kinds of situations, and we focus on making sure you’re comfortable throughout the whole process.

Being aware of these pregnancy-related oral health changes helps you and your orthodontist create the most effective and comfortable treatment plan for your unique situation.

Safety of Braces During Pregnancy

When thinking about orthodontic procedures during pregnancy, safety is definitely a top priority. Luckily, thanks to advancements in dental technology, you can go ahead with braces while keeping both you and your baby safe.

• Dental X-rays: Dental X-rays are generally safe during pregnancy. They use very low levels of radiation, and we take extra precautions—like wearing a lead apron—to protect both you and your baby. Experts, including the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Pregnancy Association, agree that dental X-rays pose little to no risk to a developing baby. If X-rays are needed for your orthodontic treatment, we will take every precaution to keep you and your baby safe.
• Non-Invasive Procedures: Getting braces during pregnancy is generally safe because the process does not involve surgery or invasive procedures. Braces are applied externally to the teeth, and the treatment focuses on gradually shifting your teeth into alignment. Since there are no medical interventions that directly affect your pregnancy, you can safely start orthodontic treatment with proper care and guidance from your orthodontist.
• Monitoring and Adjustment: During your treatment, we keep a close eye on how you’re doing and how comfortable you feel. We make any necessary adjustments to address changes in your oral health that might come up during pregnancy. This careful oversight makes sure that your orthodontic care is effective, comfortable, and safe.
• Discussing Materials: During your consultation, we can discuss the materials used in braces. This way, we can make sure there’s nothing in them that you might be sensitive to, especially since your body can be a bit more reactive during pregnancy.

By using advanced technology and following best practices for pregnant patients, we can help you get that straight smile you’ve always wanted while making sure both your dental health and pregnancy are taken care of with the highest level of attention.

Ideal Time to Get Braces

The best time to start orthodontic treatment with braces during pregnancy is typically during the second trimester. Here’s why this period is often considered most ideal:

• Reduced Risk of Nausea: A lot of women find that morning sickness and nausea tend to be more common in the first trimester. By the second trimester, these symptoms start to ease up or even go away, which can make those orthodontic appointments a lot more comfortable.
• Increased Stability: The second trimester is usually when things feel a bit more stable during pregnancy. During this stage, the risks associated with early pregnancy complications have gone down, which means it’s safer for both moms and babies to have non-invasive procedures.
• Greater Comfort: As you move into the third trimester of your pregnancy, you might find that lying on your back for long periods, which may be necessary during orthodontic treatments, can become uncomfortable. It’s also medically advised against due to the risk of supine hypotensive syndrome. During the second trimester, this becomes less of an issue, making it easier and more comfortable to find a good position for treatment.

Planning your orthodontic treatment during pregnancy is a personal decision that depends on many factors. By choosing the second trimester and working closely with your healthcare team, you can start your journey toward a straighter smile safely and comfortably. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, so your ideal timing may vary based on your individual circumstances.

Alternative Orthodontic Treatments for Expecting Moms

If you are unsure about getting metal braces, there are alternative options that may better fit your needs during this time. While braces are safe for most expecting moms, some women prefer a less invasive or more flexible option to accommodate the changes that come with pregnancy. Here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Ceramic Braces: If you’re looking for something more discreet than traditional metal braces but want the effectiveness of fixed braces, ceramic braces might be perfect for you. These braces work just like traditional ones, but they’re made with clear or tooth-colored materials that blend in with your natural smile. During pregnancy, when you might be extra conscious about how you look (hello, pregnancy photos!), ceramic braces offer a more aesthetically pleasing option. They’re just as safe as traditional braces during pregnancy and can be a great middle-ground between metal braces and clear aligners.
• Invisalign: Invisalign is another discreet way to straighten your teeth without the metal brackets and wires of traditional braces. They are removable, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and enjoy your favorite foods. This flexibility can really come in handy during pregnancy, especially when it comes to staying comfortable and clean, which is super important.
• Lingual Braces: Lingual braces offer a completely hidden orthodontic solution since they’re placed on the back of your teeth, facing your tongue. While they’re just as effective as traditional braces, keep in mind that they might take a little more getting used to, especially if pregnancy has made your gag reflex more sensitive. They also require special cleaning techniques, but for expecting moms who want a truly invisible option, lingual braces can be worth considering.

All these alternatives are considered safe during pregnancy, but every expectant mother’s situation is unique. Your orthodontist can help evaluate which option best fits your comfort level, lifestyle needs, and treatment goals while keeping both your dental health and pregnancy journey in mind. The key is finding a solution that makes you feel confident and comfortable throughout your pregnancy and beyond.

Postpartum Considerations

The postpartum period brings many changes and new responsibilities. While caring for your new baby is your top priority, taking care of your orthodontic treatment will help ensure the best results for your smile. Here’s what you need to know:

• Maintaining Appointments: To keep your treatment on track, make sure you stay on top of your orthodontic check-ups and adjustments. We recommend visiting us every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments, depending on your specific treatment plan and the type of braces you have.
• Maintaining Oral Hygiene: Keep your smile bright by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and floss every day. Consider using a mouthwash to keep your mouth clean and fresh.
• Monitoring Gum Health: Postpartum hormonal changes can still affect your gums, making them sensitive. Keep an eye out for any signs of gum inflammation and take care of them quickly.
• Eating Healthy: Make sure to enjoy a balanced diet packed with vitamins and minerals. It will help you recover and keep your teeth and gums strong. Make sure to add lots of fruits, veggies, and foods that are high in calcium.
• Staying Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain saliva production, which is essential for preventing dry mouth and reducing the risk of cavities. If you aren’t breastfeeding, the general recommendation is to drink at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day. If you are breastfeeding, the general recommendation is to drink at least 2.5 to 3 liters per day.
• Up Your Calcium Intake: If you’re breastfeeding, make sure you’re getting enough calcium to keep both you and your baby healthy and thriving. Make sure to add dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods to your meals. The daily calcium intake you should aim for is about 1,000 mg, give or take a bit depending on your age, especially if you’re over 18.
• Manage Stress and Rest: Not getting enough sleep and dealing with a lot of stress can affect your health, including your dental health. Poor sleep quality can lower your saliva flow, which increases your risk of dry mouth and tooth decay. It can also mess with your body’s ability to fend off infections, which could lead to gum disease. Look for ways to unwind and handle stress by reaching out to your family and friends for support.

Remember, the postpartum period is a time of major adjustment as you balance caring for your new baby with taking care of yourself. While dental care might not be at the top of your mind, maintaining your orthodontic treatment during this time is an investment in your long-term health and confidence.

If you experience any dental discomfort or have concerns, reach out to your orthodontist – we understand the unique challenges that come with this period and can help adjust your treatment plan to better support your new routine as a mom.

Ready to begin your smile transformation journey with Kelson Orthodontics? We understand this is a special time in your life, and our experienced team is here to make your orthodontic journey comfortable, safe, and perfectly timed with your pregnancy.

From your first consultation through your final appointment, you’ll receive personalized care that considers both your dental goals and your unique needs as an expecting or new mom.

Don’t wait any longer – schedule your consultation today. We’re looking forward to being part of your pregnancy journey and helping you achieve the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.