Is it possible to start an orthodontic treatment during pregnancy?

One of the big questions that we are faced with every day by patients is whether a pregnant woman, or someone who wants to become pregnant, can undergo orthodontic treatment.

We must remember that it is a dental procedure and its main function is to improve people's oral health. The benefits of the procedure are vast, as a healthy mouth helps with breathing problems, speech, and much more.

As such, a woman can improve her general health, even during pregnancy, if she undergoes this type of procedure.

Likewise, it should be said that this type of process is better programmed in advance so that any type of risk to the mother and baby is avoided.

At Impress, we ask our patients if there may be a possibility of pregnancy in order to adjust their current or future plan according to their condition. We have several types of equipment to protect the mother and baby from X-ray radiation.

Can orthodontics be performed if I am pregnant?

According to the Spanish Society of Orthodontics and Dental Orthopedics (SEDO), there are no contraindications for a pregnant woman when it comes to wearing invisible aligners, since it does not interfere with the patient's health, but rather improves it.

However, it should always be performed under medical supervision since the priority is the safety of the mother and the child. Although it is a dental change, it is still a medical activity, so it is very important that a doctor is aware of the case.

At Impress, we have doctors with more than 15 years of experience in the sector, and we always recommend talking to them to find the best solution. They will decide whether it is better to wait to give birth or to start in a safe way for the mother and the child, while the child is in the gestation period.

Risks and contraindications

X-rays

According to the NHS, X-rays are not normally recommended for pregnant women unless it's an emergency, however, you should always refer to a doctor for a personal assessment.

We offer a minimally invasive treatment, however there are risks and contraindications for a reason. When a patient wants to undergo orthodontics, it is vital to perform an intraoral X-ray to determine the health status of the patient's mouth. If any clinic does not perform an X-ray, it is not a trustworthy site, since they do not take into account the most important thing: the health of the patient.

The possibility that taking an X-ray during pregnancy will be harmful to the baby is very small. But if there have been a large number of abdominal X-rays, it could be dangerous.

X-rays of the mouth do not expose the reproductive organs to a direct X-ray and, in addition, a lead apron is used to protect both mother and baby from radiation, making the risk low.

Oral Health

As we have mentioned previously, the objective of an orthodontic procedure is to improve the oral health of the patient.

It is important that the patient cooperates and has optimal dental hygiene, so that it does not cause problems in the future.

What treatment is the most convenient?

Without a doubt, we are committed to using the least invasive treatment, which is invisible orthodontics. During pregnancy, there is more sensitivity, so wearing invasive devices can be a discomfort for the future mother.

In addition, with the Impress method, patients come to the clinic at the beginning and end of their treatment. Thanks to the app we use, there can be patient-doctor contact throughout, without having to leave the house and, thus, making follow-ups during the whole process easier. This also means we can adapt to people's daily lives.

Conclusions: Can I undergo treatment? Yes or no?

Yes. A pregnant woman can wear invisible aligners, but, as always, taking into account the opinion of the doctor after consulting with the specialist.

In addition, we recommend scheduling these types of interventions in advance so that there are no problems of any kind.

Frequently asked questions

Is it harmful to the foetus?

The foetus will not experience any problems due to the fact that the mother is undergoing orthodontics. The mother is the one who will notice the changes.

What do I do if I am in treatment and get pregnant?

First of all, you should see a specialist immediately, so that they can assess your particular case and the current situation. In the event that the specialist deems it necessary to stop treatment, it will be paused and, after delivery, a 3D scan will be taken again and the next steps discussed.

Can I take medicine for dental issues during pregnancy?

When a woman is pregnant, there are many drugs that are to be avoided. That is why, in the event that the discomfort requires medication, it is essential to go to the doctor to assess the situation and see what can be done.

Can I carry out the treatment while breastfeeding?

Of course. There is no problem with a woman wearing invisible aligners during breastfeeding. Orthodontics moves the teeth to position them in a specific way, and does not interfere at all with breastfeeding.

At what age can children start to wear braces?

In previous articles, we have talked about the age that children should be before starting orthodontics. We recommend that children reach dental maturity beforehand, but we do advise that they start going to the dentist from 6 years of age to assess their development.

If you are pregnant, congratulations! If you want to learn more about Impress, our dentists will be delighted to assist and explain everything you need to know to achieve the smile of your dreams in a safe and secure way.

Make your appointment and we’ll see you soon!