Pregnancy and Orthodontics: What You Need to Know!
Pregnancy and orthodontics, many of you have asked whether pregnant women should be taken into account when undergoing orthodontic treatment. We’re answering that question now. Read on to find out.
Pregnancy and Orthodontics
By definition, pregnancy has an impact on many aspects of a woman’s life. For example, her lifestyle will take a new turn, her diet will change and her overall health will suffer. Of course, oral care is no exception.
But still, there’s one question on your mind: will my pregnancy interfere with my orthodontic treatment?
The answer is quite clear: orthodontic treatment has no impact on the unborn child. So, you’ll be perfectly able to continue your orthodontic treatment throughout your pregnancy.
In short, whether you’re being treated with conventional braces or with Invisalign aligners, you can continue your current treatment with your orthodontist with complete peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
We’re often asked a variety of questions, and here we’ve put together some more specific answers and additional information on pregnancy and orthodontics.
Do I Have to Take Medication During Treatment?
Generally speaking, orthodontic treatment does not require anesthesia or medication. Therefore, you won’t need to take any medication during treatment.
On the other hand, in the event of tooth extraction or surgery, your orthodontist will discuss the implications with the patient beforehand.
Will Pregnancy Affect the Position of My Teeth?
First of all, it’s important to know that the braces used in the field can be worn without any particular concern during your pregnancy.
On the other hand, certain factors can make treatment a little more difficult during this period. As the literature shows, pregnancy hormones can make teeth more mobile than usual. More frequent adjustments to the treatment plan are therefore to be expected during pregnancy, and your orthodontist is the ideal professional in this field.
Does Food Affect My Teeth During Pregnancy?
From the outset, depending on the treatment plan chosen, certain foods may have to be avoided.
If you’ve opted for treatment with braces, here are the foods you shouldn’t eat:
If you’re being treated with Invisalign aligners, there are no foods to avoid, as you simply remove your aligners at mealtimes.
Do I Need to Tell My Orthodontist That I’m Pregnant?
Before starting any treatment, it’s important to inform your orthodontist that you’re pregnant. Your orthodontist will then be able to plan the rest of your treatment in full knowledge of the facts.
Is There a Better Time to Start Orthodontic Treatment When I’m Pregnant?
As already mentioned, the majority of women undergoing orthodontic treatment during pregnancy encounter no particular difficulties.
However, for some treatments, the devices used require some adaptation. It would therefore be wise to start treatment before pregnancy, so that you can familiarize yourself with the device in question.
This will also considerably reduce the risk of discomfort at a time when women can be more sensitive.
Finally, if this isn’t possible, don’t worry too much. Your orthodontist will take the usual precautions, and will be sensitive to the patient should she experience any pain.
Should I Tell My Doctor About My Orthodontic Treatment?
First of all, if you’re considering orthodontic treatment and you’re pregnant, you should discuss the matter with your doctor beforehand. They will also be able to answer certain questions.
As we mentioned earlier, some women may suffer from dental inflammation during pregnancy. Such inflammation can lead to gingivitis or affect the position of the teeth. The orthodontist is the ideal professional to make the necessary adjustments during treatment.
Finally, if you’re already undergoing orthodontic treatment and you’re now pregnant, there’s no reason to stop your treatment based on the information provided in this blog.
On the other hand, if you begin orthodontic treatment during your pregnancy, you should continue with your treatment plan, and the professional will accompany you during this period.
When the orthodontist is informed in advance, they can intervene promptly if changes in the mouth occur.
Dr. Normand Bach, in the heart of Montréal’s Plateau-Mont-Royal, is a seasoned orthodontic professional. Together with his team, he can accompany you through your pregnancy and ensure that it’s as happy a time as possible. Book an appointment for a quick consultation.
