If you are missing one or more teeth, you should certainly consider dental implants to recomplete your smile. Before approving you for the procedure, though, your dentist will need to learn about various aspects of your overall health. One important thing they must know is whether or not you are pregnant. Is it safe to get dental implants during pregnancy? This blog post explains what you should know.
Risks of Dental Procedures During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, your body goes through many changes, and your health and safety, as well as that of your developing baby, are of utmost importance. Undergoing dental procedures, including getting dental implants, may introduce certain risks. Below is a list of reasons why it is advisable to wait until after you give birth to undergo the dental implant procedure:
- There is a higher risk of infection due to hormonal changes that can affect your immune system. For example, you might develop a form of gum disease. This can complicate the healing process after implant surgery.
- Dental implant procedures often require the use of sedation, which may not be safe for the developing fetus and can potentially lead to complications.
- Normally, patients use pain medication after dental implant surgery. These drugs can be risky to use during pregnancy.
- If you develop gestational diabetes, it could significantly increase your risk of dental implant failure.
- X-rays are necessary for dental implant placement, and exposure to radiation, even in small amounts, can be harmful to your baby.
- Your body’s priority during pregnancy is to support the growing baby, which can affect bone density and your body’s ability to heal properly after surgery.
- Nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness can lead to additional oral health challenges, making it difficult to thoroughly care for your mouth after dental implant placement.
- Stress from undergoing a dental procedure can have an adverse impact on both you and your baby’s well-being.
Getting Started with Tooth Replacement During Pregnancy
Even though it is best to wait until after giving birth to undergo dental implant surgery, you can take steps to prepare for tooth replacement right now. Here are some tips to help you get started with the process:
- Schedule a consultation with your dentist. This initial visit will allow your dentist to review your oral health and discuss your tooth replacement options. During your third trimester, it should even be safe to get some X-rays taken.
- Develop a treatment plan. Your dentist can help you create a comprehensive plan that outlines the steps to take after your baby is born, ensuring you are ready to proceed with dental implants when the time is right.
- Focus on maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Keep your teeth and gums healthy during pregnancy by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Your good habits can reduce the risk of a gum infection that would interfere with your implant process.
- Attend regular dental check-ups. Continue to visit your dentist for routine cleanings and exams to monitor your oral health and address any issues that may arise during pregnancy.
- Stay informed. Educate yourself about the dental implant process and its benefits so you will be well-prepared for the procedure after your pregnancy.
Getting dental implants during pregnancy is not generally recommended. However, once your baby is born, you can look forward to regaining a complete smile.
Meet the Practice
At Neighborhood Dental Brandon, our team is proud to offer comprehensive care for families in our community. If you are an expecting mother, we can help you maintain your oral health throughout your pregnancy. We also offer start-to-finish dental implant services. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, contact our office at 605-582-6522.